Mar 28, 2019 | By Thomas

New York-based 3D printing marketplace Shapeways is partnering with Industrial 3D printing specialist EOS to offer and supply market-ready orthosis and prosthesis to designers and businesses. To launch its expansion into the O & P market, Shapeways is now offering PA11, the bio-degradable, nylon material derived from castor oil, to its customers.

The medical market has a need for affordable materials to create parts such as braces and prosthetics. The launch of PA11 will open the doors for Shapeways to collaborate with  medical practitioners, bringing 3D printing technology to the production of customized medical enhancements.

Selective Laser Sintered PA11 material is naturally sourced from castor oil and known for its elastic and impact resistant nylon properties. With greater strength and flexibility, PA11 is an impact resistant and a ductile material with high elongation at break. Popular for active, wearable goods and snaps to fit parts and hinges, PA11 is great for high-impact customized parts such as prosthesis, braces, insoles and other exterior medical needs. PA11 will be offered in its natural white finish that can also be dyed to any desired color.

This partnership is not a first for the two 3D printing giants. EOS was one of the first AM brands to partner with Shapeways at its launch in 2007 and houses dozens of EOS AM machines in their facility.

“Expanding our reach to the medical industry to make life-changing enhancements available is something we could have only imagined when we first opened our doors,” said Greg Kress, CEO of Shapeways. “We look forward to working with the medical industry and creating products such as prosthetic limbs, making someone’s life better.”

 

 

Posted in 3D Printing Application

 

 

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