Industry giant Stratasys Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) completed its acquisition of Solid Concepts ― the largest dedicated provider of 3D printing for rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing, injection molding and tooling services in North America ― back on July 15 this year as part of an acquisition strategy that has contributed to 35% organic growth in its second fiscal quarter. Solid Concepts offers a wide range of 3D printing technologies, including PolyJet, Stereolithography (SLA), Plastic and Metal Laser Sintering (SLS & DMLS) as well as production grade Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). Stratasys now adds a new FDM material to Solid Concepts’ range of materials, with the notable quality of being ultra-violet (UV) stable.
The new material, ASA (Arcylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is chemically and mechanically similar to ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). Solid Concepts explained: “This stability protects parts from significant mechanical property degradation and colour fading due to direct and prolonged UV exposure, affording a wide range of outdoor applications to parts produced using FDM. ASA additionally provides good strength, flexibility and thermal resistance, as well as an appealing surface and matte finish, giving parts an aesthetically pleasing look.”
