Fonon has announced the development of its Bulk-To-Shape (BTS) additive manufacturing technology/3D metal printing technology, designed for the construction sector.  

Additive manufacturing systems are designed to fabricate complex geometries without the need for part-specific tooling, resulting in minimal material waste.  

Once fully operational, these systems will enable construction professionals to produce parts and tools on site, reducing downtime associated with waiting for replacement parts. 

The BTS system will combine traditional laser additive manufacturing with a method of creating original metal powder, enabling the recreation of 3D models from digital designs. 

The company's 3D laser metal printing systems will employ a layered, digital process that uses focused laser energy to fuse metal powder into 3D objects.  

Fonon’s technology is set to allow users to recycle obsolete parts or raw materials into new, fully functional components.  

This advancement is expected to lead to faster procurement of essential components and contribute to a more sustainable supply chain by reducing the carbon footprint.  

The shift from physical to digital inventories will allow for on-demand production of new components and parts. 

Moreover, Fonon’s BTS systems will provide the capability to optimise the design of existing parts for improved performance and reliability while also reducing material waste.  

Last year, the company announced the acquisition of Fonon Technologies, a laser-based development and worldwide manufacturing and systems integration company. 

This deal is expected to expand the company’s product offering, as well as its venture into the defence industry. 

It is also anticipated to enable Fonon to supply environmentally friendly technology to industries worldwide.