3DExpress: Trumpf Sells off LPBF Business

This week’s 3DExpress brings us some business updates: Trumpf is divesting from its laser powder bed fusion business, Autodesk is debating a takeover bid for software provider PTC Inc. and voxeljet is addressing its insolvency issues. Find out what these companies have in store, and then, read about a microscopic elephant figure that was 3D printed inside a live human cell, and finally, discover a unique 3D printed chair from a French design studio.

Trumpf Divests LPBF Printing Business

Earlier this week, the DUBAG Group announced that it was taking over the Laser Metal Fusion (LFM) division – Trumpf’s LPBF technology. This division is to be continued by the DUBAG Group from Italy as an independent company. This is aimed at reducing activities and focusing more on applications. It should help to make the Group one of the leading technology solution providers for metal 3D printing. In addition to the machines, customers should also benefit from application consulting, process development and automation solutions. The focus should be more strongly aligned to numerous verticals and their needs, including aerospace, medical technology, dentistry and industry. The transaction still has to be approved by the local authorities. It is also important to note that Trumpf will continue to run the laser metal deposition sector itself.

Photo Credits: Trumpf

Autodesk Debates Takeover Bid for PTC Inc.

Late this Wednesday, Bloomberg reported that Autodesk is considering acquiring its rival engineering-software provider, PTC Inc. Autodesk develops computer-aided design software applications for the architectural, engineering and manufacturing markets, including additive. Similarly, PTC provides 2D and 3D CAD, manufacturing and engineering software. According to Bloomberg, this deal would give Autodesk a 17% share of the $19 billion manufacturing software market, and the news didn’t come without impact: on Wednesday, Autodesk Inc. dropped 2.4%, closing at 307.27, while PTC Inc. stock rose 17.7% to close at 210.47. As of Thursday afternoon, Autodesk fell 6.52% to 287.24, and PTC came down 5.33% to 199.91. No final decision has been made, and Autodesk could decide against proposing a deal for PTC. The Bloomberg report also noted that other industry players were also interested in PTC.