Xerox Officially Sells Elem Additive Solutions

It has been a tumultuous year so far in the 3D printing world. There have been constant discussions of potential mergers and acquisition, for example the uncertainty surrounding Stratasys with Desktop Metal, Nano Dimension (though it has officially pulled out of the race) and 3D Systems all throwing their hat in the ring for a merger. Another example of the uncertainty is Xerox which after a triumphant entry into the 3D printing market in 2019, quietly started closing up shop this year. Now the mystery of what will happen to Xerox’s 3D printing capabilities has officially been unraveled as Xerox has announced the sale of Elem Additive Manufacturing to leading metal 3D printing solutions manufacturer ADDiTEC.

From the start of Xerox’s entry into additive manufacturing, it made an impact. Its patented metal 3D printing, Liquid Metal Printing (LMP), technology differed from any that came before because it involved the use of a liquid metal. In the process, a metal wire is heated up and then jetted as metal droplets, similar to material jetting. What was exceptional as well was that it enabled the creation of metal parts with interesting properties while eliminating dangers traditionally associated with the use of powders. As the first and leading provider of liquid metal additive manufacturing solutions, it was also adopted quickly by various major players. Some examples include the inclusion of a metal 3D printer on a naval ship, the U.S.S Essex, as well as work with Siemens, ORNL and the Rochester Institute of Technology.

The ElemX was developed by Xerox and uses LMP technology (photo credits: Xerox)

Despite this, however, starting late year, rumors started to circulate about the closing of the additive manufacturing branch of Xerox. Something that was confirmed when it was announced that the company would just be maintaining connections for printers already sold and not advancing further in AM. The decision was made as Xerox sought to refocus is strategic priorities on its core offerings. This news therefore is a breath of fresh air to the industry as it ensure the continuation of this unique technology.