Jean-Jacques Degroof is an investor in technology ventures who searches for innovative solutions fulfilling meaningful needs and has taught on this topic in Europe. Closely connected with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Jean-Jacques Degroof sees VulcanForms Inc., which develops digital production systems that enable complex metal parts to be efficiently manufactured at scale, as a good example of such ventures.
The founders of VulcanForms, both MIT graduates, make use of an internally developed laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) metal 3D printer. This involves several laser beams working together to deliver high-performance parts with intricate designs. The 3D printers are synchronized via a digital thread that spans robotics, machining, and post-processing. As the parts are produced, they are monitored and checked for defects by the automated system.
With quality materials like titanium and advanced steel and nickel-based alloys, the output stands above industry standards and the technology allows to manufacture complex metal parts at scale. Current applications range from orthopedic implants to fuel nozzles on jet engines.
