LPE first to run two Axtra3D Lumia X1 printers
LPE has become the first in the world to run two Axtra3D Lumia X1 printers, having announced the addition of another Lumia X1 to its production capabilities at Formnext 2024.
Above: (left to right) Patrick Walls, Engineering Director at LPE and Gianni Zitelli, Founder & CEO of Axtra3D.
Courtesy LPE
This significant milestone makes LPE the first company worldwide to operate two of these groundbreaking machines, further solidifying its position at the forefront of the 3D printing industry.
This latest investment is designed to meet the growing demands of industries such as aerospace, where high-quality, reliable, and efficient 3D printing solutions are crucial for the development of advanced components. The addition of the second Axtra3D Lumia X1 printer will enable LPE to significantly reduce lead times and enhance production capabilities, ensuring faster turnaround times for even the most complex aerospace designs.
By incorporating this advanced technology, LPE is able to offer improved precision for both functional prototypes and production components. The printer’s advanced features also support the production of highly intricate geometries, enabling LPE to confidently meet the challenging requirements of the aerospace industry. This addition will not only address the high-volume demands of customers but also ensure that the highest standards of quality are maintained, in line with aerospace regulations and LPE’s AS9100 and ISO 9001 certifications.
At the heart of this innovation lies Axtra3D’s Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) technology. By combining the benefits of stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP), HPS provides a unique balance of precision, speed, and material versatility. This results in parts with near-isotropic mechanical properties, delivering consistent performance across all three axes. Additionally, the increased build volume allows for the creation of larger parts and more complex aerospace projects with ease. The exceptional surface quality of the printed components also reduces the need for post-processing, saving valuable time and resources.
LPE’s decision to expand with a second Axtra3D Lumia X1 is also driven by its commitment to offering high-performance materials for its clients in aerospace. These include flame-retardant polymers for safety-critical components, high-temperature plastics for extreme environments and ESD-compliant materials for sensitive electronic parts. These materials will continue to support industries that rely on precision, durability, and performance from prototyping through to low-volume production.
Patrick Walls, Engineering Director at LPE, said: “With the addition of our second Axtra3D Lumia X1 printer, we are significantly scaling our production capabilities.
“This investment allows us to meet the growing needs of our aerospace clients with even greater speed, precision, and flexibility. By expanding our capabilities, we’re reinforcing our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that help our customers tackle complex production challenges with confidence.”
With over three decades of experience in additive manufacturing, LPE remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of its clients by providing cutting-edge, dependable solutions. The introduction of the second Axtra3D Lumia X1 printer demonstrates LPE’s ongoing commitment to innovation, helping clients overcome production challenges in aerospace with advanced technology and exceptional service.
LPE is the longest-established rapid prototyping and 3D printing bureau in the UK and Ireland, with over 30 years of experience in additive manufacturing.