Azul 3D

Northwestern University spin-off Azul 3D offers 3D printers and related materials as well as post-printing solutions for additive manufacturing (AM). Its LAKE printer, which was commercially launched in September 2021, works with proprietary High Area Rapid Printing (HARP) technology. The printer uses fluid flow technology and a range of materials like rubber resins, high-temperature ceramic resins, flexible resins, and machinable resins. The company claimed that it can print large parts 100x faster than conventional alternatives. The printer comes with a clear hood, allowing the user to see parts while printing is ongoing. Azul 3D planned to launch a new printer named SEA, which can reportedly print 4x print area compared to LAKE. 

In June 2024, the company announced the launch of “OCEAN," the next generation of its 3D printing platform to enable users to print high-volume parts with high precision. With built-in collaboration with an unnamed industry partner, the solution leverages Azul 3D's proprietary High Area Rapid Printing (HARP) technology to enable users to print high-volume parts with high precision. It consists of a build area of 812 mm x 812 mm, an optical engine that maintains 72 um high resolution, digital light processing (DLP) projection, and build speeds of over 300 mm per hour. 

In July 2024, the company announced the launch of “POND”, a small-scale 3D printing system designed for faster material and application development. 

Key customers and partnerships

Some of Azul 3D’s customers include sporting goods manufacturer Wilson Sporting Goods (September 2021) and electronics manufacturer DuPont (March 2022).