In the realm of additive manufacturing, 3D printing with glass has long been considered a formidable challenge due to the material's exceptionally high melting temperatures and complex handling requirements. Despite numerous research experiments, commercial ventures in glass 3D printing have been sparse, with only a handful of notable attempts, such as Glassomer and Micron3D, making fleeting appearances in the market.
Based in Stockholm, Sweden, Nobula3D has emerged as a trailblazer in the field of glass additive manufacturing with its revolutionary DGLD, Direct Glass Laser Deposition, technology. Unlike conventional methods, which struggle with the thermal demands of glass, Nobula3D has developed a proprietary glass filament and a sophisticated printing process capable of operating within the extreme temperature range of 400-2200°C. This breakthrough enables the startup to achieve intricate layer sizes as fine as 0.100mm, comparable to those of traditional polymer-based 3D printers.
Central to Nobula3D's innovation is its DGLD process, which integrates a specialized toolhead that extrudes the glass filament. This filament is then meticulously shaped and fused by a powerful laser, a technique akin to Direct Energy Deposition (DED) used in metal 3D printing. The precision of DGLD allows for the creation of complex 3D objects with minimal layering imperfections, setting a new standard in glass printing technology.
Nobula3D's glass 3D printer boasts impressive performance metrics, including a variable print speed ranging from 5-200mm/s. While this speed may appear modest compared to traditional Fused Filament Fabrication devices, it represents a significant achievement in the realm of glass printing, where thermal resistance and material delicacy pose formidable challenges.
The exact build volume of Nobula3D's printer remains undisclosed, yet its compact exterior dimensions of 1000 x 400 x 600 mm suggest a versatile application in diverse industrial settings. Moreover, Nobula3D emphasizes that its DGLD technology requires minimal post-processing, hinting at a streamlined production workflow that could potentially redefine manufacturing efficiencies.
The versatility of Nobula3D's glass 3D printing technology opens doors to a myriad of applications across industries. From microfluidics to optics, from medical devices to high-temperature components, the potential applications are as diverse as they are promising. Notably, the startup has showcased impressive prints such as intricate glass springs capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1000°C, a feat previously unimaginable with traditional glass processing methods.
As a nascent player in the 3D printing landscape, Nobula3D faces the challenge of identifying optimal market niches for its cutting-edge technology. The startup's proactive approach in exploring applications in fields like art, packaging, and anti-counterfeit measures reflects its ambition to carve out a unique space in the additive manufacturing ecosystem.
