Nuburu and GE join forces on a metal 3D printing project using a blue laser

Nuburu, an American company based in Colorado specializing in blue laser technology, has partnered with GE Additive to explore the benefits of using blue lasers in 3D printing technology. As part of the joint technology agreement, the two companies will focus on exploring the speed, precision and commercial benefits of implementing Nuburu blue laser technology in metal alloy 3D printing processes.

Nuburu’s approach is based on the absorption of the blue light emitted by the laser beam into metals, which enables the efficient melting of a wide range of metals of industrial importance. By combining a blue laser module with an optical conditioning system, Nuburu aims to optimize production efficiency. As part of the collaboration, GE Additive will share its laser 3D printers and expertise in integrating and characterizing the Nuburu prototype light engine to evaluate any advances compared to existing technology.

Nuburu CEO Dr Mark Zediker expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that advanced blue laser technology has reached significant milestones. He believes that cooperation with GE Additive – one of the leaders in 3D printing from metal powders – will help Nuburu expand the use of blue lasers in the area of additive technologies. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize various sectors such as military logistics, aerospace manufacturing and medical device fabrication.

Chris Schuppe, General Manager of Engineering and Technology at GE Additive, highlighted the company’s willingness to evaluate Nuburu’s blue laser technology and its potential benefits. As an industry leader with experience in qualifying parts for regulated industries, GE Additive aims to use its expertise in metal 3D printing to evaluate the improvements made by Nuburu technology.

This joint development agreement complements Nuburu’s existing partnership with GE Additive supporting their AFWERX Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II contract, which was awarded in 2022. The companies intend to exploit the potential of blue laser technology for future additive manufacturing applications.

Source: www.nuburu.com