One of the countries where we are seeing the fastest growth in additive manufacturing is undoubtedly China. And while many associate the Chinese market with desktop solutions, whether extrusion or vat photopolymerization, there are a growing number of manufacturers offering industrial solutions, including some that have been around for quite some time and are now moving into the international market. One of the most notable of these is TPM3D. The SLS 3D printing solutions provider has made its mark in its home country and has started expanding internationally. We spoke to the CEO to learn more about the company, its journey and what we can expect from it in the near future.

3DN: Could you introduce yourself and your connection to 3D printing?

My name is Lucy Zhai, I am the CEO of TPM3D. After earning my engineering bachelor and MBA from Peking university, I worked in product development, applications, manufacturing, sales and marketing for industrial markets in Fortune 500 companies. I held various leadership roles at General Electric (GE) in both the Industrial & Consumer Division and the Energy Division, gaining deep insights into the industrial markets in China and the Asia-Pacific region.

TPM3D CEO, Lucy Zhai

This experience led me to join Stratasys in 2016 as the General Manager for Greater China. Given the wide range of applications of 3D printing in the industrial field, I believed this technology could accelerate R&D in manufacturing and reduce costs, offering great potential. In 2018, our founder team acquired a company share from Stratasys and rebranded it as “TPM3D,” focusing on the development and promotion of SLS technology as an independent entity.

 

3DN: How did TPM3D come about? What is its mission?

Since its inception, TPM3D has been dedicated to the development and application of SLS 3D printing technology. In its early days, the company focused on providing printing services using SLS technology. Later, we developed our own SLS equipment and powder materials, shifting our focus to equipment manufacturing and application promotion. In 2005, we launched the first generation of Precimid high-performance nylon powders, and in 2007, we developed and manufactured Asia’s first industrial-grade SLS laser sintering 3D printer.
From 2014 to 2018, we formed a joint venture with Stratasys, obtained TÜV CE certification for an SLS additive manufacturing system. In late 2018, as mentioned, we repurchased all shares from Stratasys, rebranded, and began operating independently under the “TPM3D” brand. To this day, we remain committed to the development and application of SLS 3D printing technology.

 

3DN: Could you tell us more about the features and advantages of TPM3D’s SLS 3D printing solutions?

TPM3D has consistently focused on SLS 3D printing technology, offering SLS 3D printing equipment, various high-polymer powder material and premium printing services like large parts and high functional material printings.
We provide two series of SLS printers: the S Series (Superior) and the P Series (Performance). The S Series is industrial-grade equipment designed according to the highest EU safety standards, primarily targeting the high-end advanced manufacturing market. The P Series is known for its high cost-effectiveness, catering mainly to small and medium-sized printing service providers and emerging industrial markets.

TPM3D S Series SLS Printers

To meet diverse customer needs, our printers come in seven models with build volumes ranging from 260 x 260 x 450mm to 600 x 600 x 800mm, featuring configurations from single-laser to dual-laser systems, as well as ultra-high-temperature printing capabilities. We also developed the PPS (Parts and Powder Post-Processing Station), which integrates part cleaning, powder recycling, adding, mixing and automatic powder feeding to create a clean and efficient working environment. This commitment to efficient, clean and green production sets us apart among SLS 3D printer manufacturers.
At TPM3D, we have some of the largest SLS dual-laser 3D printing solutions on the market, allowing users to make parts in industries like automotive and healthcare. Not only that, but the quadruple laser printer with a build chamber measuring over 1 meter chamber is under development this year.

TPM3D PPS（Part & Powder Processing Station)

In addition, TPM3D offers more than 20 types of polymer powders and composite materials, including PA12, PA11, PA6X, TPU, PP, as well as high-temperature and high-performance materials such as PEEK and PEKK. This allows us to provide tailored solutions for various applications.

3DN: How do you see the current state of the SLS 3D printing market?

I hold an optimistic view of the development prospects for the SLS 3D printing industry. This technology is undergoing rapid advancements, with the emergence of more powder materials driving an expansion of applications. The technical characteristics of SLS align with the trend of 3D printing transitioning from prototyping and trial production to end-product manufacturing, and its advantages in batch production will become increasingly evident.
SLS technology is particularly well-suited for small-scale batch production. Due to its excellent mechanical properties, the absence of support structures, and high design freedom, it aligns perfectly with the production of customized end products. Examples include tooling and fixtures, parts with complex structures, and customized sports equipment, such as helmets, shoes, glasses, and rehabilitation support devices. Production line equipment designed for batch manufacturing will emerge to meet these needs, with features such as modularity, unattended operation and automated control becoming fundamental requirements.

In addition, in the post-processing of SLS printed parts, chemical vapor smoothing (CVS), dyeing and foaming process are progressing, these applications not only improve the appearance and texture of the product but also enhance the performance of the product. For example, CVS and dyeing can make the surface of the part denser, stronger and tougher, while the foaming process can be lightweight and greatly reduce the printing cost.
We see SLS technology gradually shifting from high-end industrial markets to small businesses, institutions, and even personal studios. In recent years, small and medium-sized SLS printers, such as those from Formlabs, have gained popularity for their smaller build sizes, compact design, and user-friendly operation. I believe this trend will continue, with low-cost, easy-to-use small and medium-sized SLS devices attracting more small businesses and individual users.

On the left, the jig made with SLS 3DP of PA12 material compared to the traditional metal casting one on the right.

With the proliferation of AI design tools and the increasing consumerization of 3D printing devices, 3D printing technology is indeed poised to transition from industrial markets to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and households, becoming as ubiquitous as household appliances. This trend is expected to drive exponential growth in the 3D printing market and bring about profound impacts.

3DN: Could you share some thoughts on your company’s strategic development plans for the future?

At this stage, we have three main priorities:

• Ongoing R&D — We are committed to developing products and applications that align with market trends. Both small and medium-sized SLS equipment and large-scale production line devices are our areas of focus.
• Cost Out — To promote the large-scale application of SLS technology, cost reduction is essential. Our mission and vision include making this technology more affordable and accessible to a broader user base. We continuously aim to optimize design and production processes, improve material utilization, and explore more economical solutions.
• Expanding Overseas Markets and Enhancing Service Levels — In recent years, our overseas user base has been gradually increasing. However, our team is primarily based in China, and we rely mainly on reseller partner for overseas promotion and service. To better support our international business, we plan to gradually establish overseas service centers to quickly respond to equipment service needs, get closer to our customers, and develop applications that are suitable for local markets.

In summary, TPM3D’s strategic development plan for the future will enhance the quality of our products and services through innovation, cost reduction, and strengthened local services to meet the needs of global customers. We look forward to working with global customers and partners to advance this exciting technology together.