Inkjet printhead manufacturer Xaar will sell its remaining interest in Xaar 3D to its partner Stratasys Solutions.
Stratasys, a leader in polymer 3D printing solutions, previously held a 45 per cent stake in Xaar 3D.
Xaar 3D has made progress this year but has suffered product development delays due to Covid-19. As a result, it could potentially require more investment than originally planned.
The companies believe the deal offers Xaar 3D the best opportunity to complete the commercialisation of the product range in the shortest time. Further, it enables Xaar to focus on its core business with an injection of cash. Xaar will continue to receive royalties on product and service sales. John Mills, chief executive at Xaar, says the deal enables Xaar 3D to continue its progress and leadership in the 3D printing sector.
He says, “We have enjoyed our partnership with Stratasys. We look forward to continuing to work with them to supply printheads to Xaar 3D and share in the long-term success of the business.
“Also, the agreement allows us to focus on our core business, and other opportunities in the market, to support our long-term growth strategy.”
Stratasys 3D printing
In April 2021, Stratasys introduced the Stratasys H350 3D printer, the first system powered by Xaar’s 3D powder-based SAF technology. Joav Zeif, chief executive at Stratasys, says the H350 represents more than 10 years of research and development. He adds that SAF-based 3D printers are designed to deliver cost-competitive parts at production-level throughput.
Since its release, the company has installed the Stratasys H350 3D printer at various beta customer sites in Europe and the US. The company expects general availability before the end of this year.
Zeif says, “We are committed to being the leading provider of production-scale polymer 3D printing for our customers. Additive manufacturing continues to transform industries around the world. The H350 printer and SAF technology are central to that mission. They give us a powerful platform for meeting the needs of customers. This covers industries such as commercial goods, automotive, consumer goods, and consumer electronics.
“Customers tell us this technology’s consistent performance at higher volumes helps them grow their businesses. In addition, it provides them a significant competitive advantage. We are excited to welcome the outstanding team of innovators from Xaar 3D to the Stratasys family.”
Despite selling its interest in Xaar 3D, additive manufacturing remains an important focus for Xaar’s printhead business. It supports the sector with an extensive product portfolio and strong partnership approach to working with its customers.
