Royal DSM : DSM announces collaboration between Somos® and 3D Hubs for 3D printed tooling

3D Hubs is an online platform that provides customers around the world access to local and specialized manufacturing services. They aim to bring the latest and most beneficial materials to engineers around the world. Through their platform, 3D Hubs has obtained a network of global certified service providers that are skilled in rapid tooling and provide 3D printed tools or molds made with the leading material for this application, Somos PerFORM. Customers can now submit a quote for a 3D printed tool through the 3D Hubs' website and will have a reply within twenty-four hours.

Now more than ever, engineers are turning to 3D printed tooling to replace traditional machined techniques for the benefits that it brings in terms of reduction production time and cost. Tools can be created with this technique using Somos PerFORM in just a few days compared to weeks. This means that product designs and modifications can be tested and verified quickly ultimately leading to faster time to market. Molds created with Somos PerFORM have a high level of surface smoothness and detail along with high heat resistance and impact strength. This combination of properties allows for the development of complex molds for various applications and the ability to injection mold with multiple materials including polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, ABS and glass filled nylon.

'We are excited to collaborate with 3D Hubs to offer the market a place where they can obtain high quality 3D printed tools and service,' says Brigitte Jacobs, Application Development Manager for Somos. 'We work closely with 3D Hubs to verify the 3D printing tooling service providers in their network to ensure that the quality and expertise for creating the tooling is top notch.'

'The collaboration with Somos on 3D printed tooling further expands our network of manufacturing services and product offering,' says Bram de Zwart, CEO 3D Hubs. 'We are always targeting to offer our customers cutting edge materials and service. Adding Somos PerFORM to our portfolio expands what our customers can do and allows them to create high quality 3D printed tools.'

About 3D Hubs

3D Hubs is the world's largest network of manufacturing services. With production facilities connected in over 160 countries, the 3D Hubs online platform helps you find the fastest and most price competitive manufacturing solution near you. Founded in 2013, the network has since produced more than 1,000,000 parts locally, making it the global leader in distributed manufacturing. More information about 3D Hubs can be found at www.3dhubs.com.