Safran and Prodways Group announced today that they are teaming up to develop additive manufacturing (3D printing) materials and processes.

As part of this collaboration, Safran Corporate Ventures is taking a stake in Prodways, one of the European leaders in 3D printing for industrial and trade applications. Prodways Group offers multi-material solutions, in particular based on its MOVINGLight technology.

The partnership agreement signed by Safran and Prodways Group concerns the development of printable materials and assembly processes for these materials with inorganic compounds, such as ceramics and metals, which can be applied to Safran's products and processes. In addition to this general contract, the companies could also sign specific contracts in areas such as casting, metallic parts made by indirect manufacturing, and high-temperature polymer powders for composites. The five-year contract is non-exclusive, and is renewable by a jointly agreed amendment.

"This agreement reflects Safran's proactive policy on additive manufacturing," noted Stephane Cueille, Safran Executive Vice President, R&T and Innovation. "Safran is already at the cutting edge of this field, and uses 3D printing technology to make parts and subassemblies for its engines, as well as aircraft and defense equipment. Through this agreement, the two companies will be able to pool their skills to effectively transform the technology building blocks offered by Prodways into additive manufacturing processes for Safran products."