Laser Company Nuburu Finishes Air Force Contract to Test 3D Printing Technology

Industrial blue laser maker Nuburu announced that it has completed a U.S. Air Force contract awarded in 2022. The AFWERX Small Business Innovation Research Phase II deal required the demonstration of blue laser-based 3D printing solutions with area printing technology, Nuburu said Thursday.

The demonstration entailed the production of a stainless steel part using a blue laser beam shaped with a digital micromirror device. According to the company, the successful test marks a milestone in the creation of a light engine to be integrated into large-scale 3D printing systems.

Nuburu CEO Brian Knaley said the capability would also produce fewer defects than existing printers.

Nuburu noted that it was supported by General Electric’s additive manufacturing division. The two companies entered into a joint development agreement in June to expedite the development of print engine technology that could enhance the accuracy and speed of laser-based 3D printing.

In March, Nuburu secured a spot on a potential five-year, $75 million contract to prototype high-energy laser weapon systems for the U.S. Navy.