Addition by consolidation: Stratasys and Objet merge

   
Stratasys, one of the early entrants into the 3D printing—or additive manufacturing (AM)—business with its Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology, has had a successful history, and “currently boasts an impressive portfolio of 3D printing and direct digital manufacturing solutions,” according to Stratasys’s information.

The company has a wide range of capabilities and materials, and in addition to its FDM technology for functional prototypes and production parts, offers inkjet-based PolyJet for prototyping parts with high feature detail and fine surface finish; and Solidscape Drop-on-Demand (DoD) thermoplastic ink-jetting technology for complex patterns for investment casting of finished parts.
   
“We are excited to move forward as one company and deliver the benefits this combination creates for our shareholders, our customers and our employees,” said David Reis, former CEO of Objet who has assumed the role of CEO of Stratasys. “Stratasys is now uniquely positioned to offer a comprehensive portfolio of innovative products and technologies, and we have the scale, team and financial strength to achieve our goals.
   
Erez Simha, former COO and CFO of Objet, has assumed the role of COO and CFO of Stratasys Ltd. Scott Crump, co-founder and former CEO of Stratasys Inc., has become full-time executive chairman of the board. Elchanan Jaglom, formerly chairman of Objet, is serving as the full-time chairman of the executive committee.
   
Prior to merging, the two companies’ revenues totaled $277 million for 2011. Systems range from “affordable” desktop printers for idea development to large production systems for direct digital manufacturing. The company has more than 120 3D printing materials including over 100 proprietary inkjet-based photopolymer materials and 10 proprietary FDM-based thermoplastic materials.
   
Recently Stratasys debuted black Ultem 9085 from Sabic Innovative Plastics, a high-performance thermoplastic for use in its FDM additive manufacturing process. The material is in demand from the transportation industry for its FST safety rating, a standard that ensures the material won’t promote a fire, release harmful smoke, or emit toxic fumes, said a release from Stratasys.
   
Scott Crump said, “With our breadth of products, commitment to innovation, and outstanding, service-focused team, we will be well positioned to address customer needs across the entire 3D design and manufacturing spectrum.”