MELD Manufacturing Talks Solid-State Metal 3D Printing

Founded in 2018, MELD Manufacturing has developed a metal 3D printer that’s a bit unusual: while most current solutions rely on fusion processes, thus melting metal particles together, this machine operates by using friction and pressure to make the material malleable. The metal can be deposited layer by layer in the open air, eliminating the stress of a closed, gas-filled chamber. MELD technology also offers the ability to repair existing parts (like Directed Energy Deposition), add features to a part or rework its coating. This makes it compatible with more metals and allows for the manufacturing of larger parts. We met with the company’s founder and CEO, Nanci Hardwick, to learn more about this innovative process.

3DN: Can you introduce yourself and your connection to additive manufacturing?

Hi, my name is Nanci Hardwick and I am an entrepreneur who has been developing MELD technology for over a decade now. I officially launched the company two years ago.

Nanci Hardwick in front of the MELD machine (photo credits: MELD Manufacturing)

3DN: Why did you create MELD Manufacturing?

I believe MELD has the power to redefine the way we do things. The company is contributing to a circular economy by reducing waste in manufacturing and enabling the reuse of materials and parts that would otherwise be discarded. With MELD, we are helping to advance environmentally friendly manufacturing by being energy and waste efficient and operating in the open air.