Two companies are leading the way in this innovation: Fabri, a startup leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and digital processes to optimize investment casting, and Humtown Innovations, which combines cutting-edge technology with traditional expertise to advance production.
Additive Manufacturing as a Driver of Change
Additive manufacturing is increasingly seen as the key to modernizing traditional foundry processes and transitioning the industry toward digital production. According to a VoxelMatters report, the market for digital foundry solutions could exceed $1 billion by 2032 – representing about 1% of the global metal casting market. This growth could also revitalize companies like ExOne and voxeljet, which have been pioneers in additive solutions for over a decade.
Fabri: $5 Million for Investment Casting Innovation
The startup Fabri has secured $5 million in funding to advance its technologies and transform the investment casting industry. Backed by investors such as Lavrock Ventures and RTX Ventures, Fabri aims to deliver precise metal castings faster and more cost-effectively.
By combining rapid manufacturing processes with innovative design software, Fabri minimizes waste and maximizes quality. These approaches are particularly valuable in industries like aerospace, automotive, and industrial equipment, where precision is critical. The funding will not only help scale Fabri’s technologies but also expand its market reach, enabling the company to meet the growing demands of modern industries
Humtown: A New Chapter for a Sweet Legacy
When Humtown Innovations acquired a former chocolate factory in Ohio, it transformed the facility into a state-of-the-art manufacturing center while preserving its symbolic heritage. Elements like the chocolate pipelines and colorful walls remain intact, blending the past with the future.
Today, the factory houses a fleet of modern 3D sand printers capable of producing highly precise molds. Additionally, energy-efficient lighting and upgraded workspaces reflect Humtown's commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Humtown merges tradition with progress, showcasing how existing structures can be repurposed for modern manufacturing solutions. This blend of history and technology embodies the company’s vision to thrive in a changing industry and drive innovation forward.
Looking Ahead
Both Fabri and Humtown demonstrate how additive manufacturing can be harnessed in different ways: Fabri, as a young startup, focuses on speed and efficiency, while Humtown transforms existing facilities through advanced technology. Together, they show that the future lies in the ability to integrate traditional methods with modern solutions – an exciting time for the foundry industry.
Source: www.voxelmatters.com
