BigRep and BASF set to partner to develop industrial 3D printing materials

Announced at formnext powered by TCT, the pair expect to finalise the partnership in the coming weeks.

BigRep, the Berlin-based technology start-up, and global chemical company, BASF have announced the two companies are set to form a partnership to jointly develop industrial 3D printing materials.

The imminent strategic alliance was announced at formnext powered by TCT, where both companies are exhibiting.

Upon finalisation of the agreement, BASF will become a preferred material and application development partner of BigRep, who will continue to develop advanced equipment and software ready for integration into digital manufacturing workflows.

“Our goal is to offer the best additive manufacturing solutions to our customers with BigRep equipment and BASF industrial materials,” said René Gurka, CEO of BigRep, of the forthcoming partnership. “Continuous innovation into new additive materials will help us support our customers to realize the full potential of additive manufacturing in their businesses.”

BASF has long been one of the largest chemical companies in the world, and in recent years has sought to impact the 3D printing market, with numerous partnerships and now a dedicated 3D printing business. BigRep, meanwhile, has only been in operation for three and a half years, but has become a reputable developer of large format 3D printing machines. Despite varying levels of experience in their respective sectors, the company share an ambition which has brought them together.

“BASF and BigRep share a vision to bring 3D printing to production floors and workspaces of all sizes,” Volker Hammes, Managing Director of its parent Group, BASF New Business GmbH, said of the potential partnership. “Our common goal is to help our customers across industries to meet current and future needs with innovative solutions.”

The companies expect to finalise the partnership before the year is out and are solidifying plans to work together international to develop innovative 3D printing applications and solutions. At formnext powered by TCT, BigRep is located in Hall 3.1, E80, while BASF is exhibiting at Hall 3.1, F20.