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FYI, RFB generally you can short OTC stocks.
Please see the short report at.
http://www.otcmarkets.com/market-activity/short-interest-otc
We had a lot of shorting in the beginning thru middle of March.
Historical Short Volume Data for SGLB
Date Close High Low Volume Short Volume % of Vol Shorted
Mar 16 0.0521 0.0699 0.052 4,408,148 620,530 14.08%
Mar 15 0.066 0.067 0.055 2,026,452 845,215 41.71%
Mar 14 0.0562 0.064 0.05 1,346,980 1,201,637 89.21%
Mar 11 0.054 0.055 0.053 463,260 421,180 90.92%
Mar 10 0.054 0.055 0.05 754,828 552,590 73.21%
Mar 09 0.0498 0.052 0.049 673,671 310,173 46.04%
Mar 08 0.049 0.05 0.049 220,749 98,300 44.53%
Mar 07 0.0495 0.052 0.047 1,515,511 856,665 56.53%
Mar 04 0.049 0.049 0.0453 503,848 265,420 52.68%
Mar 03 0.048 0.048 0.0435 492,400 257,400 52.27%
Mar 02 0.0475 0.05 0.047 291,461 113,189 38.84%
Mar 01 0.0485 0.049 0.047 391,503 204,661 52.28%
Feb 29 0.047 0.049 0.0455 361,348 199,350 55.17%
Jpi, Thanks for the post. I'm certainly hoping to see an uplist by this summer.
I will admit that it was quite unexpected when I realized that there was the vote to double the authorized shares. I kept thinking about the drop in pps back in Jan 2014 when 100 million shares flooded the market. The thought of the pps dropping further as the shorts begin another campaign is not a pleasant thought. Many of us Longs came aboard in 2013 when there were 427 million outstanding shares and have suffered through watching outstanding shares increase to 622 million outstanding shares by end of 2015. My initial reaction was one of frustration as I posted
I believe that it would be 10 million new shares under the post split but it's still double the authorized share count. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. I'd like a darn good explanation for wanting to double the authorized share count. Is anyone from the board going to attend? I have a feeling that only the folks who attend will get an idea or explanation. I hope that it would be used as a poison pill only to prevent a hostile takeover or to bring aboard 3DSIM or maybe purchase new printers to handle possible backlog of orders?
I'm with you guys to proxy silver/Jackle.
Wow! That was quick! Thanks for the update!
I believe that it would be 10 million new shares under the post split but it's still double the authorized share count. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. I'd like a darn good explanation for wanting to double the authorized share count. Is anyone from the board going to attend? I have a feeling that only the folks who attend will get an idea or explanation. I hope that it would be used as a poison pill only to prevent a hostile takeover or to bring aboard 3DSIM or maybe purchase new printers to handle possible backlog of orders?
The Way to Defeat “Short and Distorts” Is by Keeping Perspective
I’ve studied Ekso carefully, reviewed competitive offerings carefully, visited headquarters and, talked extensively with C-level executives, Ekso users, and even health care professionals.
To be very clear, I saw and still see tremendous potential ahead.
Short attacks like this are unfortunate and gut-wrenching. But they come… and they go.
“The Pump Stopper’s” allegations seem credible at first glance, but many of them don’t make sense if you stop and think about them logically for a minute.
Take the allegation that Ekso’s testing centers now prefer competitive products, for example. These are the top treatment centers in the world. It’s not in their interest to be exclusive with any manufacturer… not Ekso, not ReWalk, not Cyberdyne. You could easily substitute their names instead of Ekso’s and instantly those companies would be on the defensive.
Instead, what these treatment centers want is to evaluate and use as many options as possible. They have a medical obligation to their clients to test any device with potential. That way they can offer the broadest spectrum of treatment.
Ekso has never communicated a goal to be the only one there, nor have they claimed that Ekso suits work on all patients. That’s an inference “The Pump Stopper” hopes you’ll make so you’ll hit the sell button and make HIM money.
Or how about the list of employee defections?
People come and go all the time, so employment ebbs and flows with every startup, not just Ekso. This isn’t unusual if you understand how Silicon Valley startups work.
Further, according to CFO Max Scheder-Bieschin, many of those same people are actually working at Ekso again at this very moment. The Pump Stopper doesn’t want you to know that because that interferes with HIS agenda.
Obviously, this situation is a long way from over, which is why I am watching it carefully. There may be more selling ahead. In fact, I’d bet on it.
But what I wouldn’t do is abandon ship in a panic.
We’re talking about a stock that’s between $1 and $2 a share. It’s not like we’re talking about Netflix at $624 a share here. So your downside is limited.
That said – to be really blunt – if you cannot handle the loss of $0.37 a share, you have no business investing in the stock market let alone a startup company like Ekso. Investing is risky and all investments can lose money. That’s why you never, ever invest money in any stock that you can’t afford to be without.
Further, if you’ve taken emotion out of the equation and properly position sized your investments, including Ekso, in keeping with the Total Wealth Tactics we’ve discussed many times, you’re not going to blow up your portfolio if something goes wrong.
And, finally, keep my original instructions in mind. Ekso is a long-term investment that will be volatile. Startups always are. That’s why my original instructions were to average down if the stock fell to $0.75 per share. Barring any change in the material information that Ekso releases shortly regarding The Pump Stopper’s allegations, those still stand.
Still, I know this is tough. Nobody likes to see a stock they believe in get clobbered for any reason… but keep it in perspective.
Microsoft is on track to do $99.3 billion in global revenue for 2015. In 1976, it booked $16,005.
Many times stocks that are ultimately big winners feel frail in the beginning.
Agreed Silversmith. Great post and rationale as usual. Sigma Labs is progressing very well like us Longs have anticipated. I'm looking forward to increasing revenue as the business development work comes to light. Mark is hiring folks because he sees the revenue coming to justify the hires. SGLB has positioned itself well for future long term growth.
I agree with you. I believe that they do have a plan and that some good news will be on the horizon. It would be great if several orders occurred just before or just after the uplist or both. I continue to like the story of SGLB and believe that institutional investors will love the potential here.
How-An-Uplisting-Works
http://www.thestreet.com/story/10725448/1/how-an-uplisting-works.html
Fact No. 1. Uplisting isn't automatic. After a company meets all of the requirements for an uplisting, including financial requirements, corporate governance requirements and share price, it is still up to Nasdaq or Amex to give final approval. Sometimes, as in the case of SinoCoking ( SCOK), this happens almost immediately. Other times, as in the case of Subaye (SBAY), it can take a number of weeks. The conclusions are that timing on uplistings is uncertain, timing depends entirely on Nasdaq approval, and it pays to be patient. Because I missed out on the massive Sinocoking run and a few others, I typically try to get in early and then be patient rather than waiting until it is too late.
Fact No. 2. The required share price to uplist to Nasdaq is $4. The price is determined by the bid price, not the closing price, of the stock. In April 2009, Nasdaq lowered its share price threshold to $4 from $5. This was presumably due to the impact that the financial crisis had on share prices, but could also be seen as a move to take some business from the Amex exchange. Both the Amex and the Nasdaq charge substantial listing fees to companies for listing on their exchanges and both are eager to maximize revenue. Amex has a lower required share price of $2 to $3 for an uplisting.
The requirements for an Amex listing can be found here.
The reason that the bid is used instead of the closing price is that the bid more accurately reflects demand for the stock and is hard to manipulate, unlike the closing price, which can be influenced by a single trade. However, if the closing share price of a company is right at $4, then chances are that its closing bid was below $4. So looking at share-price histories alone can be misleading.
Fact No. 3. It doesn't take 90 trading days with a bid above $4 to uplist to Nasdaq.
The 90-day misconception comes from the fact that some companies that are not yet profitable and that lack an adequate operating history can still list on Nasdaq, but only if their bid price is above $4 for 90 consecutive trading days and if they meet other criteria.
This doesn't apply to profitable companies such as Biostar. Again, a good example of a much faster uplist is Sinocoking, which took only seven consecutive trading days after the time it traded at $3.50 on Feb 9 to the time it announced its uplisting on Feb. 19. However, as always, Nasdaq reserves the right to take longer than this based on its own criteria.
A separate misconception is 30 days. The 30-day misconception comes from people getting confused with the delisting requirements of Nasdaq. The 30-day trigger is the delisting trigger, not the uplisting trigger. When a company trades below $1, such as Sirius XM (SIRI - Get Report) recently did, it gets a letter from Nasdaq that says something like this:
Fact No. 4 . Reverse splits are a sign of good things for companies on the way up, but a sign of bad things for companies on the way down.
In order to meet the minimum share price requirements for Nasdaq, many companies will conduct a reverse split. This is perfectly acceptable to the exchange, and the post-split share price will be evaluated accordingly.
Using a reverse split to raise the share price and obtain an uplisting is a very positive sign for a company and is much different than companies that use a reverse split to prevent being delisted. Once again, the confusion relates to delisting as opposed to uplisting. Many people who don't focus on uplistings only encounter reverse splits in the context of companies that are trying to stave off a delisting, so in many people's eyes a reverse split is a sign of a troubled company.
GrahaMate, Thank you. I meant to infer the uplisting versus the reverse split which would require naked shorts to be resolved.
SGLB is moving to uplist to a major market. This is excellent news for us Longs. The time that we have been waiting for is finally about to come to reality. SGLB will move out of pennyland and institutional investors who have been waiting and watching will finally be able to invest in SGLB. Smart money will flow to SGLB because smart money recognizes the long term potential of PrintRite3D.
PrintRite3D offers an independent validation of parts built to design. The independent validation is written into FAA guidance and the ICME framework. Mark confirmed what I personally have understood for some time.
There is a lot of other programs that are on the horizon that all play to this ICME space because they recognize the value of it. So back to your initial question, does it represent revenue opportunity for us? Yes, on all of the fronts. From involvement with these federally funded programs and ultimately downstream as they begin to adopt this technology, our technology, be rolled into their methodology and approach.
In order to enable rapid qualification, Honeywell
is developing a holistic risk based probabilistic
framework that relies significantly on ICME
models to optimize process to design intent and
mitigate risk by incorporating process
monitoring and IPQA.
ICME is being used by ALCOA, Dr. Ball noted, to
optimize the forging process, to predict process-induced bulk residual stresses, and to
characterize intrinsic material properties
In his closing summary, Dr. Ball said that the exposure of the airframe community to
ICME up to this point has been limited. Now, with the availability of sophisticated models to
simulate the forging and fabrication effects on materials state, and the increased use of ICME in
design of new materials, he anticipates that the airframe community will begin turning more
frequently to ICME-informed applications.
Ford Motor, for example, is using ICME to reduce the time and cost of developing aluminum castings for engines.
Thank you.
Well played on that trade. My plan for SGLB is the same as yours!
I agree with silversmith. Us Longs should just look to another 3D company on the OTC that reverse split and uplisted. That company was ONVO.
Enjoying the technical golden cross that formed today! 50 day moving average crossed the 200 day moving average.
BREAKING DOWN 'Golden Cross'
As long-term indicators carry more weight, the Golden Cross indicates a bull market on the horizon and is reinforced by high trading volumes . Additionally, the long-term moving average becomes the new support level in the rising market.
Technicians might see this cross as a sign that the market has turned in favor of the stock.
MDuffy, I did the same thing. I'm taking off work to listen/live and ask questions. You are correct the Conference call is tomorrow.
Sigma Labs Announces Fiscal 2015 Year End Conference Call
Record Revenue Achieved in Fourth Quarter
SANTA FE, N.M. – January 21, 2016 – Sigma Labs, Inc. (OTCQB: SGLB) (“Sigma Labs” or the “Company”), a developer of advanced, in process, non-destructive quality inspection systems for metal-based additive manufacturing and other advanced manufacturing technologies, today announced that management will host a conference call to discuss financial results for the Company's fourth quarter and full year of fiscal 2015 on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Sigma Labs plans to release the Company's 2015 fourth quarter and full year results prior to the market open that same day, March 16, 2016.
To participate in the fourth quarter conference call, please dial toll free 1-888-243-4451, or 1-412-542-4135, approximately five minutes before the conference call time stated above. A live webcast of the call can also be accessed on the Sigma Labs website at www.sigmalabsinc.com. A recording will be available on the Company's website upon completion of the call.
I certainly hope so. I found it interesting that the con call was scheduled to occur the day after the America Makes project as well. I'm hoping for maybe a little more insight and planning to ask about productions run contracts timelines/ ICME/ the old BAM and dental implants progress. It would be nice if money is coming from BAM or dental implants before uplisting.
DaReal, Thanks for this post. A Reverse split and an uplist would be excellent. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's con call.
Thanks Desarcmo. I agree. This bodes very well for SGLB being the go to third party independent validator. It all is falling in line with the ICME framework which is being adopted by military programs and industry alike. I continue to believe that SGLB being incorporated into the ICME framework will prove to be one of their most important achievements ever towards ensuring them as the defacto standard in third party verification & validation.
•Independent verification and validation.
To provide maximum understanding
of the characteristics governing thermal–chemical–mechanical
behavior
of hypersonic structures, independent
verification and validation of subcomponents
will be conducted in operationally
relevant environments. An independent
verification and validation test bed and
support team has been established and
coordinated by DARPA to provide guidance
and enable effective ground testing
of flight-configured boost-glide hot-structure
aeroshell subcomponent hardware
tested in a simulated hypersonic environment
with relevant fixturing. Planning,
coordination, execution, and analysis
of arc heater tests will be conducted in
months 12, 20, and 29 at the USAF
AEDC H2 or a similar arc heater facility.
This team also will gather and compile
a historical hypersonic database for
archive, curation, and analysis.
As mentioned above, MDP requires
ICME to be incorporated into the materials
development process, with a focus
on true ICME principles.
Kanya. Thanks for these posts. Keep them coming. It continues to confirm where AM industry is heading and I continue to believe that SGLB will be a huge part of it.
Truthandlove, Thanks for the update. Dave is branching out to do his own thing since GE/Honeywell/MAterialize all have resources that are working to develop IPQA. IMHO.
Kanya, Thanks for the post!
America Makes and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) are currently developing and standardizing terminologies, test methods and process improvements to help companies and users work under consistent 3D printing guidelines. These efforts will eventually result in a well-defined 3D printing space that benefits all industries.
In the meantime, we can look to the aerospace industry in terms of FAA-accepted design allowables, post-processing methods to increase quality, process specifications for repeatability, and the overall successes of aerospace parts manufacturing to know that 3D printing in other industries will eventually be used as a true production option beyond low volume parts. GE, Boeing, Airbus and NASA are a few of many examples where 3D printing has overcome hurdles, such as design, material, and standardization. The wins from aerospace are only the beginning for everyone else. If this sector, with its stringent certifications, testing, and safety approvals, relies on 3D printing, we can comfortably assert 3D printing will be a critical part of manufacturing’s future for the rest of us.
HIIGUY, Thanks for the post!
Correction RFB. It did not end on low of the day it was more like middle of the day. One more correction that is Honeywell and GE are still working with Sigma Labs. Just trying to help out. Please see the Honeywell Blog for proof. https://aerospace.honeywell.com/en/blogs/2015/november/our-series-of-blogs-on-3d-printing
Jackle. I absolutely agree and I'm going to bring up the ICME framework again as I believe it is an awesome opportunity or SGLB. I know I keep bringing up ICME but There is big time exposure in the Defense sector. Here are a few quotes from the Big Data Workshop.
http://www.asminternational.org/documents/18940848/23411071/Big+Data+in+R%26D.pdf/680e8a74-061e-4d08-af0b-e8de0431f2d6
Dr. Ward then described MGI initiatives with data-intensive elements taking
place within the government, including a number of projects at ARL, the Air Force
Research Laboratory (AFRL), ONR, DARPA, DOE, and NIST. He pointed out that
these efforts use an ICME framework.
Session 3 of the workshop focused on the application of big data concepts in
manufacturing. Adele Ratcliff, Office of the Secretary of Defense, had originally
been scheduled to present during Session 3 but was unable to participate. Presentations
were made by Jesse Margiotta, DARPA, and Wayne Ziegler, Army Research
Laboratory.
Dr. Margiotta then described a project DARPA is developing with Honeywell
Aerospace and several other team members. The project aims to develop rapid
qualification of powder bed fusion additive manufacturing processes—in particular,
direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). The general approach consists of the following
elements: parameterize the manufacturing process; implement new sensors
into the manufacturing process; incorporate an ICME construct that links process
to materials to properties; and apply rigorous model verification and validation
to understand the confidence limits.
Dr. Margiotta then described a project DARPA is developing with Honeywell
Aerospace and several other team members. The project aims to develop rapid
qualification of powder bed fusion additive manufacturing processes—in particular,
direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). The general approach consists of the following
elements: parameterize the manufacturing process; implement new sensors
into the manufacturing process; incorporate an ICME construct that links process
to materials to properties; and apply rigorous model verification and validation
to understand the confidence limits.
Dr. Christodoulou then briefly described the ICME process (see Box 2 in Dr.
Ward’s summary for more information about ICME). She argued that ICME is an
important driver in the acceleration of development times.
. She said that LM3II focuses on aluminum, titanium, magnesium, and other
modern metals and on manufacturing readiness levels (MRLs) 4-7.1 It is interested
in incorporating ICME to shorten the design–production cycle.
Dr. Christodoulou pointed out that ICME is the primary tool to address
the challenges presented in the MGI, and MGI is therefore the entity to enable
widespread adoption of ICME—to make best practice become common practice.
Dadx4 Thanks much. I appreciate it. I wish the best for all the Longs who have been patiently waiting for AM mass production to explode. That is when SGLB's time will come.
Updated links for New Investors. Remember to do your DD.
1) Process accepted by Boeing in 2012 and Honeywell contract
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sigma-labs-inc-awarded-additive-manufacturing-contracts-from-honeywell-aerospace-139971823.html
2) JTDA with GE Aviation in 2013
http://www.geaviation.com/press/other/other_20130524.html
3) Awarded DARPA Phase II contract with Honeywell in 2014
http://3dprint.com/23061/sigma-labs-drapa-3d-printing/
4) PrintRite 3D Inspect product commercialized in 2014
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sigma-labs-announces-the-release-of-printrite3d-inspect-quality-assurance-software-274312061.html
5) Technology Cooperation agreement with Materialise in 2014
http://www.materialise.com/press/materialise-joins-a-new-cooperation-agreement-with-sigma-labs-inc
6) Technology Cooperation agreement with Additive Industries in 2014
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sigma-labs-signs-technology-cooperation-agreement-with-additive-industries-300007213.html
7) 500,000 dollar contract with GE in 2015
http://3dprintingindustry.com/2015/01/19/sigma-labs-ge-aerospace/
8) Sigma Labs announces Early Adopter Program and contract with Spartacus 3D in 2015
http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/09/01/765129/10147726/en/Sigma-Labs-Announces-Launch-of-Early-Adopter-Program.html
9) Sigma Labs announces Deform product commercialized in 2015
http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/09/30/772204/10150996/en/Sigma-Labs-Announces-Launch-of-PrintRite3D-R-DEFORM-TM.html
10)Sigma Labs and Additive Industries Enter Evaluation Period for PrintRite3D(R) in 2015
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/sigma-labs-and-additive-industries-enter-evaluation-period-for-printrite3d-r/ar-AAebmrI
11) Sigma Labs to host AMC Fall meeting Oct 28-29 2015
http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/09/28/771419/10150620/en/Sigma-Labs-Announces-Fall-Industry-Events.html
12) Sigma Labs Secures Order for PrintRite3D(R) System Evaluation 2015
https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/11/30/791382/10157392/en/Sigma-Labs-Secures-Order-for-PrintRite3D-R-System-Evaluation.html
13) Sigma Labs teams with 3DSIM on software solutions for metal 3D printing in 2016
http://www.tctmagazine.com/3D-software-news/sigma-labs-partners-with-3dsim-metal-3d-printing-software/
14) Sigma Labs Announces Contracts With Aerojet Rocketdyne for Air Force Program and “America Makes” Initiative in 2016
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/sigma-labs-announces-contracts-aerojet-130000823.html
Just my contribution to bringing awareness of SGLB's steady progress!
Good Luck Longs. $SGLB is a company on the move!
This is great news!! Being built into a standard is just what we want. We are being built into ICME framework and now looking like Air Force for qualifying AM rocket engines! This is wonderful! It's a slow but necessary step going through all the T&E; however, it will be worth it in the end. Good Luck Longs!
Agreed. Printer manufacturers are coming up with their own quality assurance solutions like EOS.
EOSTATE MeltPool observes the light emitted by the melt pool. Key elements are two photodiodes located on- and off-axis, a camera adapter, a specialized signal amplifier and according spectral filters to separate process light from reflected laser light. EOSTATE MeltPool software offers automatic data error correction and real-time process visualization and evaluation. For data analysis, the EOSTATE MeltPool Analysis Toolbox visualizes data in 2D or 3D mappings and enables the evaluation of indication clusters. The tool works based on three advanced algorithms to obtain different data interpretations.
From the collected data conclusions for the resulting quality in the final part can be drawn. Customers define corresponding parameters (MPM Parameters) using the open and flexible EOSTATE MeltPool Analysis Toolbox and can set their thresholds in alignment with their particular quality requirements. Live monitoring during the build process of a real part helps to automatically identify error indications based on these MPM parameters. As such, EOSTATE MeltPool is a powerful tool for quality-oriented work in Additive Manufacturing.
4. THIRD PARTY CERTIFICATION BODY. In
addition to administering the qualification program in
accordance with this AC, a third party certification body
must assure that the manufacturer provides and
maintains a quality control system in accordance with
FAA-STD-013, Quality Control Program Requirements,
or suitable alternative, such as the ISO 9000 family of
standards or Department of Defense quality standards. It
must also assure that testing laboratories that perform
qualification testing conform to the requirements of the
International Organization for Standardization/
International Electrotechnical Commission (ISO/IEC)
Guide 17025, “General Requirements for the
Competence of Testing and Testing Laboratories.”
For non-destructive testing processes, the process must be qualified in compliance with
European Regulation (see requirements for Human Resources monitoring).
? All the NDT procedures (process sheets) must be validated by a level 3 Cofrend Cosac
agent.
If the company does not possess internal level 3 personnel, validation can be
subcontracted to a Cofrend Cosac approved organization. In case of critical part, this must
be approved by ECG-ECE.
? In the case of processes where operators qualification requires a third party organization
(welding and NDT in particular), the subcontractor must provide with qualification
evidences granted by these organizations.
? If these organizations are not qualified in compliance with European Regulation, an
equivalence with reference organizations must be demonstrated.
Thanks. I just noticed a job at Arcam for an application engineer and PHD student. I'm getting a great feeling that SGLB will be involved with Arcam to support validation of their AM parts for GE. Guess We'll know soon enough.
http://www.arcam.com/wp-content/uploads/annonsereng-arcam-industridoktorand.pdf
The student will work with improving the melting process, and at the same time make 3D
printing by EBM more transparent for validation. New mathematical models and simulation
algorithms for the EBM process will be developed. This will make it possible to control and
validate the EBM process from computed temperature distributions.
- MSc or equivalent, preferably with knowledge in the production of metal parts.
- Good ability to understand complex technical concepts and develop innovative
solutions to meet customer needs. Also good ability to develop project plans
and meet strict timelines.
- Experience in applications development and/or technical services are
required.
- Analytical skills and scientific problem-solving experience is a must.
- Experience with orthopedic implant or airplane parts production is desirable,
as is experience in the validation and quality assurance.
Awesome! Thanks Jackle. I noticed this one today. It seems Honeywell and Arcam are farily well acquainted. Honeywell is giving a presentation at Arcam's Investor Day. http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160301005954/en/Arcam-Investor-Day-Inauguration-%E2%80%93-March-9
Interesting as Honeywell was the first to use EBM to make a component using Inconel 718 which is highly valued in aerospace applications. It would be nice to see PrintRite3D incorporated with Arcam since GE placed that recent order with them.
These Dots seem to be connecting more frequently. Interesting jobs at Arcam
http://www.arcam.com/wp-content/uploads/arcam-appleng-us-2016.pdf
Experience with orthopedic implant or airplane parts production is desirable,
as is experience in the validation and quality assurance.
Lloyd's Register finally got back to me on why they did not include in-process or in-line inspection in their AM Guidance for Metallic Parts. Here's the reply "
Although we considered the inclusion of in-line inspection methods in our first version of the Guidance Notes, we decided that given our view of the printer/machine as a key variable in the manufacturing process, in-line inspection would not reduce our post-build inspection requirements at this time.
We are pursuing investigation and validation of in-line inspection methods (i.e. testing that in-line processes are as reliable as post-completion processes) and measurement of how these may positively impact the confidence in a AM part in the future. The timeframe for this investigation and validation should be over the next 12-18 months, and will rely on cooperation from software and hardware vendors
OBJECTIVE: Research, develop and establish in-process and final non-destructive inspection (NDI) monitoring requirements and methods able to identify material defects of additive-manufactured (AM) simulated critical weapon systems parts.
DESCRIPTION: Additive manufacturing entails building three dimensional objects by adding material in successive layers. This innovative technology enables engineers to create non-traditional shapes and sizes, speeds up production processes, and reduces costs and product lead times from order to delivery.
Today, additive manufacturing is thought to still be a rapid prototype capability but the technology has been progressing at a rapid rate. One of the most notable needs is the industry agreement for the development of proper NDI methods and implementation of non-destructive testing (NDT) for product acceptance, as well as its use for repeatable production capability. Basic physical properties must be understood and measured. This will provide the NDT engineer with the knowledge to select the methods parameters with confidence and known expectations. These parameters should be identified to support the proper technique development for the determination of flaws. The lack of detection of defects can have a detrimental effect of the part’s service life.
Companies are developing the AM process using proprietary or restricted parts. Due to this, the sharing of NDI samples is most limited. Designing a sample or samples which provide the needed characterization elements is necessary.
As additive manufacturing production processes gain industry popularity the need to perform non-destructive inspection of additive manufactured parts is essential. For an Air Force systems program office or Air Force Sustainment Center complex to transition and implement additive manufactured airworthiness or critical parts in their weapon systems of responsibility, a reliable nondestructive testing inspection in-process and final inspection must be in place:
- Include the development of a physics-based model that correlates the data collected with changes in the NDI response to a defect in the AM test parts.
- Validate models through additional test coupons, followed by destructive testing and metallography.
- Perform limited probability of detection (POD) study.
Traditional NDI methods can be used on the finished parts, but more often than not, it is not possible to get 100-percent coverage in these inspections due to the complexity of geometry of finished AM produced parts. Final inspection of an AM part with one or more nondestructive, non-contact inspections that can be done concurrent with the AM build process is needed. In-process inspection of a part as it is being manufactured will reduce the amount of material that needs to be inspected and could even enable immediate correction of manufacturing defects while it is manufactured.
PHASE I: Research and develop proof of concept for proposed manufacturing in-process NDI to detect and quantify possible AM process-induced defects that demonstrate meeting the above requirements. The Phase I final report should provide an approach in a Phase II effort to demonstrate with selected parts or coupon designed to validate results.
PHASE II: Construct a prototype NDI system and collect inspection data during the AM process based on the concept from Phase I. Demonstrate affectivity of the inspection system and ability to collect the appropriate data during the AM build to model material properties and defect locations in the part.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Enhance system hardware and software to maximize systems’ utility for military complex depot implementation. Identify limitations of the inspection systems and probabilities of detection for critical defects. Prepare technology for further military and commercial transition
Unidentified Analyst
I was just simply enquiring whether you sincerely felt that eventual – actual production run PrintRite3D contracts would be forthcoming from GE and Honeywell.
Mark Cola
Yes. We fully anticipate and expect that, and we are planning for those and we are well positioned at the moment.
Production is now transitioning from the CFM56 engines that powered the previous generation 737s and A320s, with total output of the Leap expected to reach 100 motors this year, rising to 500 in 2017, 1,200 in 2018, 1,800 in 2019 and 2,000 in 2020.
I agree with you.
http://247wallst.com/technology-3/2016/02/25/short-interest-in-3d-printing-stocks-continues-to-drop/
http://investorplace.com/2016/02/3d-printing-ddd-xone-vjet/#.Vs-ZjJwrLIU
3D Printing Stocks Have a Big Year Ahead in 2016
Look for a turnaround in 3D printing stocks as they make up for last year
Feb 24, 2016, 12:45 pm EST | By Josh Enomoto, InvestorPlace Contributor
If it seems like the financial markets don’t make a lick of sense — join the club! That’s what most investors of 3D printing stocks would have to say. It has unequivocally been a horrific period last year for most companies within the burgeoning industry after suffering an even worse year in 2014. A combination of unrealistic hype and poor financial performances against Wall Street estimates have put 3D printing stocks on the defensive.
Cube 3D Printer review, 3D printer promo shot
Source: 3D Systems
The frustration shared by investors and industry insiders alike is that the markets appear to be myopic. For one thing, 3D printers — more properly termed additive manufacturing (AM) — open up a whole new sphere of possibilities. While the technology space is increasingly geared towards cloud computing and digitalization, there will always be a need for physical mechanics. In theory, AM machines help close a critical financial gap between tech haves and have-nots.
Still, even now, 3D printing stocks generally have failed to find sustained demand in the markets. However, it’s important to remember that panic often begets panic, regardless of underlying fundamentals. It’s also the industry itself that bears a good deal of responsibility. Several AM companies have focused too intently on the technology itself, leaving less emphasis — if any — on practicality. Thus, the gap between innovation and application widened unnecessarily.
At the same time, these are the missteps and growing pains of an emerging sector — not one of a dinosaur on its way to extinction. The pioneering spirit of monozukuri — or perfected craftsmanship — is a universal ambition. If played correctly, AM companies can corral that desire into cold, hard cash. And once that happens, the sentiment in the markets is sure to follow suit.
Hmmmmm... Just saw these job postings.. wondering if that's our IPQA. It's located about two miles from Evendale, OH which is where our two machines reside {I recall Z provided that info.}
http://www.cynetsystems.com/jobs/job/12194/mfg-quality-engineer-direct-hire-fulltime-perm-at-cynet-systems/
Job Title: MFG Quality Engineer - Direct Hire / Fulltime / Perm
Job Location: Blue Ash, OH
Job Type: Full Time / Perm / Direct Hire + Benefits
Job Description:
Deep understanding of metal manufacturing methods used for small component manufacturing- stamping, machining (conventional CNC , mill turn, Electro chemical, Metal injection molding, powder metal, welding, mechanical joining, fineblanking, additive manufacturing (3-D printing), and others.)
Ability to execute DOE’s for process characterizations/mfg development
Assemble G10002(qualification ) documentation, enter into EPI, ( to be trained on EES procedures)
Ability to determine best mfg processes to utilize which achieves highest quality lowest cost components-
Ability to write request for quotes, analyze results and make informed recommendations on best practice for manufacturing
Plan process development and execute clear requirement setting expectations to selected Suppliers,
Ability to interpret, challenge and direct effective GD&T discussion that enable robust manufacturing, and enable critical design requirements,
Interface with Suppliers directly to ensure design requirements and process capability is achieved,
Ability to document and maintain process development documentation as directed by EES lead
Ability to develop and run mechanical reliability and strength testing under EES directed lab conditions
Organizes and conducts Engineering builds
Support Develop, design, validate & start up Candidate Sourcing Input
Gage equipment—conduct MSA’s
Fixture equipment
Support generation of all documentation & specifications for process & equipment including drawings, process specifications, PS & OM sheets, routers, IPQA specifications & troubleshooting guide
Support the use of statistical techniques, develop validation protocols, qualify first articles, complete process capability studies & process validation on both internal & supplier processes
Recommended Skill sets:
Degreed mechanical, manufacturing, or similar
Have Technical working knowledge of & apply / use skills engineering genre,with guidance as related to:
Organizational / planning skills, metallic materials & processing technologies,
Equipment development /build activities
GDT fundamentals-design discussions
Process development & design practices
Process validation practices (GMP)
Basic Statistical process control
Product design & DFMA (Design for Manufacturing & Assembly) Risk analysis including use of FMEA
https://kelly.secure.force.com/CandidateExperience/CandExpJobDetails?id=a7V8000000036eE&utm_source=Indeed&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=Indeed
Manufacturing/Cost Improvement Engineer
Every day, Kelly Services connects professionals with opportunities to advance their careers. We currently have an exciting Direct-Hire opportunity with a global leader in the production of Medical Device Products.
Pay: $30-31/hr.
Shift: Day
Scope:
This position is in the Product Management department within Research & Development which focuses on the next generation or versions of existing medical devices.
KellyOCG will have a team of 2-4 Cost Improvement Engineers who will also collaborate with the 10-15 KellyOCG Engineering Assistants who support lab testing.
Must be able and willing to collaborate with a team and provide excellent customer service and support to the customer.
This role will focus on manufacturing feasibility investigations, manufacturing cost saving evaluations, manufacturing risk determination and execution of approved cost improvement manufacturing methods.
Responsibilities & Key Requirements:
Support process development activities including:
Deep understanding of metal manufacturing methods used for small component manufacturing- stamping, machining (conventional CNC , mill turn, Electro chemical, Metal injection molding, powder metal, welding, mechanical joining, fineblanking, additive manufacturing (3-D printing), and others.)
Ability to execute DOE’s for process characterizations/manufacturing development
Assemble G10002 (qualification) documentation, enter into EPI, (to be trained on EES procedures)
Ability to determine best manufacturing processes to utilize which achieves highest quality lowest cost components-
Ability to write request for quotes, analyze results and make informed recommendations on best practice for manufacturing
Plan process development and execute clear requirement setting expectations to selected Suppliers,
Ability to interpret, challenge and direct effective GD&T discussion that enable robust manufacturing, and enable critical design requirements,
Interface with Suppliers directly to ensure design requirements and process capability is achieved,
Ability to document and maintain process development documentation as directed by EES lead
Ability to develop and run mechanical reliability and strength testing under EES directed lab conditions
Organizes and conducts Engineering builds
Support Develop, design, validate & start up manufacturing & assembly operations that meet:
Team objectives for product quality, cost & performance
Lead the qualification of:
Assembly equipment/processes
Tooling-injection molding, stamping, machining processes etc.
Gage equipment—conduct MSA’s
Fixture equipment
Support generation of all documentation & specifications for process & equipment including drawings, process specifications, PS & OM sheets, routers, IPQA specifications & troubleshooting guide
Support the use of statistical techniques, develop validation protocols, qualify first articles, complete process capability studies & process validation on both internal & supplier processes
Recommended Skills:
Degreed mechanical, manufacturing, or similar engineering field
Have Technical working knowledge of & apply / use skills with guidance as related to:
Demonstrated execution of process or product change management
Cost analysis
Project Management
Organizational / planning skills,
Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification
Metallic materials & processing technologies
Equipment development /build activities
GDT fundamentals-design discussions
Process development & design practices
Process validation practices (GMP)
Basic Statistical process control
Product design & DFMA (Design for Manufacturing & Assembly)
Risk analysis including use of FMEA
Preferred Additional Skills:
A minimum of 5 years of related manufacturing engineering experience is required
Previous professional experience within the disciplines of Plastic or Metal manufacturing functions is required
Experience working in a highly regulated environment is preferred
Knowledge of ISO and GMP regulations is preferred
Education Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with 4+ years of experience in respective field
OR Associate’s Degree (or extended manufacturing engineering training) with 12+ years’ experience leading manufacturing development activities
A focused degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electro-mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline is preferred.
http://www.indeed.com/cmp/EZEN-Computer-Services-Inc./jobs/Manufacturing-Design-Engineer-2c90214ad60d2954?q=IPQA
Manufacturing Design Engineer
EZEN Computer Services Inc. - Blue Ash, OH
Title: Manufacturing Design Engineer
Location: Blue Ash, OH
Duration: Full Time
Job Description:
Deep understanding of metal manufacturing methods used for small component manufacturing- stamping, machining (conventional CNC , mill turn, Electro chemical, Metal injection molding, powder metal, welding, mechanical joining, fineblanking, additive manufacturing (3-D printing), and others.)
Ability to execute DOE’s for process characterizations/mfg development
Assemble G10002(qualification ) documentation, enter into EPI, ( to be trained on EES procedures)
Ability to determine best mfg processes to utilize which achieves highest quality lowest cost components-
Ability to write request for quotes, analyze results and make informed recommendations on best practice for manufacturing
Plan process development and execute clear requirement setting expectations to selected Suppliers,
Ability to interpret, challenge and direct effective GD&T discussion that enable robust manufacturing, and enable critical design requirements,
Interface with Suppliers directly to ensure design requirements and process capability is achieved,
Ability to document and maintain process development documentation as directed by EES lead
Ability to develop and run mechanical reliability and strength testing under EES directed lab conditions
Organizes and conducts Engineering builds
Support generation of all documentation & specifications for process & equipment including drawings, process specifications, PS & OM sheets, routers, IPQA specifications & troubleshooting guide
Support the use of statistical techniques, develop validation protocols, qualify first articles, complete process capability studies & process validation on both internal & supplier processes
Support Develop, design, validate & start up manufacturing & assembly operations that meet :
Team objectives for product quality, cost & performance
Lead the qualification of:
Assembly equipment/processes
Tooling-injection molding, stamping, machining processes etc.
Gage equipment/conduct MSA’s
Fixture equipment
Recommended Skill sets:
Degree mechanical, manufacturing, or similar engineering genre,
Have Technical working knowledge of & apply / use skills with guidance as related to:
Organizational / planning skills, metallic materials & processing technologies
Equipment development /build activities
GDT fundamentals-design discussions
Process development & design practices
Process validation practices (GMP)
Basic Statistical process control
Product design & DFMA (Design for Manufacturing & Assembly) Risk analysis including use of FMEA
Thanks for sharing Jackle. I've got some reading to do tonight :)
Thanks jpi. That's further confirmation on the importance of the ICME framework. I love that Sigma Labs is involved in the middle of it's continued development and believe this will reap huge benefits for SGLB. This ICME is one that I've been following closely. Alcoa is already confirmed to be using it and we know that the likes of GE, Pratt and Whitney, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, GM, and Ford are involved in it's implementation. Good Luck Longs!!
Yes, I agree. I'm looking forward to when Materialise has integrated PrintRite3D. I believe PrintRite3D sales will significantly increase. BTW saw this statement on Material Solutions site.
We can’t say much about what we do
because what we do is confidential to our customers.