Key Takeaways
- India's first private orbital launch was powered by 3D printed engines
- Chaozhuo Aviation Technology's founders sold a 26.58% controlling stake to Taiyang Technology for RMB 1.02 billion
- HeyGears' G1 Series full-color 3D and UV printer raised over US$7 million on Kickstarter
- Bit Infinite closed consecutive angel and angel-plus rounds, bringing total funding to about RMB 45 million
Introduction to CNC Milling and Additive Manufacturing in Asia
The second half of July saw significant developments in Asia's additive manufacturing sector. India achieved a major milestone with its first private orbital launch powered by 3D printed engines. In China, a billion-yuan ownership change occurred at a cold-spray AM specialist, while Korea earned its first certification for metal AM repair.
China's Additive Manufacturing Landscape
Chaozhuo Aviation Technology's Ownership Change
Chaozhuo Aviation Technology, a Shanghai-listed supplier of cold-spray additive manufacturing and aviation repair services, announced that its founding family would transfer a 26.58% controlling stake to Shanghai Taiyang Technology for RMB 1.02 billion (approximately US$140 million). The agreement prices shares at RMB 42.80, a 20% discount to the pre-suspension close.
HeyGears' Successful Kickstarter Campaign
HeyGears launched its G1 Series, a desktop full-color 3D and UV printer, on Kickstarter, raising over US$7 million within its first days. The G1 Series features a piezo-inkjet system that combines full-color 3D printing with UV surface printing in one modular device, priced from US$1,999.
Comparison of Additive Manufacturing Technologies
| Technology | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cold-spray AM | A process that uses high-pressure gas to accelerate metal particles, creating a strong bond | RMB 1.02 billion (Chaozhuo Aviation Technology) |
| Full-color 3D and UV printing | A technology that combines 3D printing with UV surface printing | US$1,999 (HeyGears' G1 Series) |
| Text-to-CAD model | A software that generates CAD models from text inputs | RMB 45 million (Bit Infinite's funding) |
Bit Infinite's Funding and Growth
Bit Infinite closed consecutive angel and angel-plus rounds, bringing total funding to about RMB 45 million since April. Its 4-billion-parameter Arko-T model generates CAD models from text inputs, gaining traction in the market.
Bottom Line
The second half of July was a significant period for Asia's additive manufacturing sector, with India's first private orbital launch, China's billion-yuan ownership change, and Korea's first certification for metal AM repair. The comparison of additive manufacturing technologies highlights the diversity and innovation in the field. As the industry continues to grow, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in CNC milling and additive manufacturing.