Cummins invests in 3D metal printing tech

Columbus-based Cummins announced Tuesday that it is adding to its additive manufacturing capabilities by investing in a new, high-precision 3D metal printing technology called binder jet.

Binder jetting is described as a technology where a print head moves across a bed of powder and selectively deposits a liquid binding agent in the shape of the section, bonding these areas together to form a solid part one layer at a time. Officials say the technology can print 60 to 100 times faster than laser-based printing processes.

“By investing in 3D metal additive technologies from GE Additive, we are investing in Cummins and our customers,” said Tim Millwood, Vice President of Global Manufacturing at Cummins Inc. “This technology has the potential to provide our customers with a quicker, lower-cost production method that ultimately uses less energy, which means we can better serve our customers and reduce our environmental impact.”