According to a report in Bloomberg, the technology company Apple is experimenting with 3D printing processes for the production of smartwatch cases. According to informed circles, models of the Apple Watch Series 9 will initially be equipped with 3D-printed stainless steel cases. The first rumors about this already existed a few weeks ago.
Binder jetting is used in the process. A powdery material is applied in layers and solidified at the desired points by a binder. This is followed by further processing steps such as sintering and milling to produce the exact shape and details.
The advantage of 3D printing is its high material efficiency. Only as much powder is used as is needed for the component in question. According to insiders, Apple has been working on the manufacturing process for about three years. In the medium term, there are plans to expand 3D printing to other product areas.
In addition to the material savings, Apple also expects the technology to speed up the manufacturing processes. Until now, the stainless steel cases of the Apple Watch have been milled out of metal blocks in a more complex process. Stainless steel variants account for around 10 percent of watches sold.
Whether the first customer shipments of the Series 9 will actually include 3D-printed cases remains to be seen, according to the report. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working with 3D printing companies IPG Photonics, Farsoon and BLT in this area.
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