Rapid manufacturing

Although rapid manufacturing  exhibits a lot of potential, it’s a technology practiced only rarely and not yet well known. At Materialise, however, rapid manufacturing has become firmly established. Materialise has been involved somehow with virtually every rapid manufacturing application that’s currently known in the industry. It’s Materialise technology that enables personalised manufacturing of the drill guides that simplify dental implant surgery; of hearing aids that fit the ear perfectly; of models on which to simulate complex operations; and of objects with complex, freeform shapes that are otherwise impossible to produce.

Materialise Software specialises in creating technology that enables automated and custom design and specialised data handling. This is essential if rapid manufacturing is to gain acceptance as a valuable, economical manufacturing process.
Materialise Industrial Services owns the world's largest rapid manufacturing capacity based in one location and treats these technologies as real production techniques. This puts us in pole position to practice rapid manufacturing. At Materialise, we think this is an unfortunate wording. The use of Rapid Prototyping techniques to make end products is just one, yet important method in what we like to label Personalised Manufacturing. In addition, our more convential technologies like rapid tooling and vacuum casting can contribute to Personalised Manufacturing.

Materialise has the unique advantage of over 15 years’ experience, both as a prototyping service provider and software developer. The synergy between these activities results in Materialise’ exceptional strength: the ability to provide dedicated products and services, precisely tailored to the evolving needs of the RP&M industry. Our consultants share this expertise and experience, making Materialise the ideal partner to assist you in developing and implementing your Personalised Manufacturing plans.