PrinterPrezz and Uniformity Labs aim to reduce cost of AM medical devices
January 19, 2022
PrinterPrezz, Inc, and Uniformity Labs, both of Fremont, California, USA, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to utilise Uniformity’s Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) and Binder Jetting (BJT) for medical device applications.
The first joint effort will be the qualification of Uniformity Labs ultra-low porosity Ti64 titanium powder at PrinterPrezz’s innovation centre to produce implantable medical devices, beginning with the spine implants manufactured on 3D Systems’ ProX DMP AM machines. Utilising this powder is expected to reduce build time and lower the cost to manufacture end parts. Together, the companies will seek to qualify spine implants through the FDA regulatory approval process.
“We aim to leverage the qualification of Uniformity Lab’s metal powders to accelerate new product introduction and reduce device costs for patients around the globe,” stated Shri Shetty, CEO, PrinterPrezz. “Uniformity’s powders have a history of exhibiting superior mechanical properties and higher machine productivity, which will help us continue to push the boundaries of innovation in the medical device industry. Our executive teams have collaborated closely over the last few years and recognised the considerable synergy. We are excited to leverage this partnership to reduce device costs and expand the reach of our medical platform.”
Adam Hopkins, CEO of Uniformity, added, “This is a tremendous market opportunity and the perfect application for our ultra-low porosity titanium powder. We have an excellent working relationship with PrinterPrezz and are excited by the prospect of combining our novel technology with their life-changing innovation platform. Other industries have already adopted our printing processes to significantly enhance the 3D printing value proposition and we look forward to having the same impact in the medical segment through this partnership.”
Uniformity founding advisor and VP of Business Development, Geoffrey Doyle, serves as an advisor to the PrinterPrezz executive team and board of directors. He has been in this role since the company was founded in 2018.
