Two major 3D printing giants Shapeways and EOS collaborate to enter the orthotics and prosthetic market

On March 29, 2019, the author learned from foreign media that the US 3D printing platform Shapeways has cooperated with German industrial 3D printing expert EOS to provide and provide orthoses and prostheses for designers and enterprises. To expand its presence in the O&P market, Shapeways now offers its customers PA11, a biodegradable nylon material from castor oil.

Two major 3D printing giants Shapeways and EOS collaborate to enter the orthotics and prosthetic market
The medical market needs affordable materials to make parts such as braces and prostheses. The launch of PA11 will open the door for Shapeways to work with healthcare practitioners to apply 3D printing technology to the production of customized medical products.
Two major 3D printing giants Shapeways and EOS collaborate to enter the orthotics and prosthetic market

Selective laser-sintered PA11 materials are naturally derived from castor oil and are known for their elastic and impact-resistant nylon properties. PA11 has higher strength and flexibility and is an impact and ductile material with high elongation at break. Suitable for activities, wearables and snaps, suitable for parts and hinges, the PA11 is ideal for high impact custom parts such as prostheses, braces, insoles and other external medical needs. PA11 will be supplied in a natural white coating or in any desired color.
Two major 3D printing giants Shapeways and EOS collaborate to enter the orthotics and prosthetic market
This partnership is not the first collaboration between two 3D printing giants. When the Shapeways platform was launched in 2007, EOS was one of the first co-branded additive manufacturing brands, and Shapeways installed dozens of EOS 3D printers in its factory.

According to Greg Kress, CEO of Shapeways, “Expanding our influence on the healthcare industry to provide life-changing functions is something we can think of when we open the door for the first time. We look forward to working with the medical industry to create prosthetics, etc. Products that make people's lives better."