ArcelorMittal, a leading steel manufacturer in Europe, has expanded its use of 3D printing by adopting the F370® 3D printer within its research centre based in Maizières-lès-Metz, transforming the tooling and prototyping aspects of its manufacturing processes, Stratasys announced.
The system enables ArcelorMittal Maizières-lès-Metz to create complex tooling, jigs, fixtures, and functional prototypes which significantly reduced lead times and enhanced design flexibility—benefits previously unattainable with traditional methods of machining. With the ability to run the printer overnight, ArcelorMittal’s R&D department can test and validate components, further optimizing performance.
Using the Stratasys F370® printer and GrabCAD Print software, ArcelorMittal Maizières-lès-Metz has been able to validate part shapes and measurements before going into final production. 3D printing prototypes of a part meant to be produced in aluminum can be done within three hours with polymer additive manufacturing, at a fraction of the cost. A single 3D-print validation run can cost less than 200 Euros, whereas part validation would have cost ArcelorMittal nearly 2,000 Euros – per part.
"By integrating Stratasys solutions, ArcelorMittal Maizières Research has expanded its capacity to produce custom parts with enhanced lead times and agility. The flexibility of 3D printing allows for quicker iterations and testing, reducing risk and reliance on traditional supply chains and ensuring continuous operational and cost efficiency." said Louis Wolfer at ArcelorMittal Maizières Research.
The Stratasys F370® printer offers a versatile selection of materials, including carbon fiber, thermoplastic polyurethane, and other engineering-grade thermoplastics. It combines fast and easy material swaps, a generous build volume, and dependable print results, delivering accurate and repeatable 3D printing suitable for both office and factory floor environments.
Seido Systèmes, a key partner, has supported ArcelorMittal Maizières Research to further expand their additive manufacturing uses. Seido will soon work with ArcelorMittal to integrate the Stratasys Origin DLP printer they recently acquired. This will enable them to work with a variety of resins with further mechanical performance and high-quality surface finish for more industrial applications.
"Our relationship with ArcelorMittal is a great example of how additive manufacturing is finding its place on the factory floor," said Andreas Langfeld, President EMEA and APAC at Stratasys. "By adopting our solutions, ArcelorMittal is unlocking new use cases, streamlining production, and achieving the speed and precision required for modern manufacturing. Working alongside Seido, we continue to demonstrate the value that additive manufacturing brings to industrial customers."
