en.Wedoany.com Reported - Mears Machine Corporation, an advanced manufacturing and precision machining company in the United States, has confirmed the order of a fifth Velo3D Sapphire XC metal additive manufacturing system, with options for two additional units. Velo3D stated that this investment aims to support Mears' customers in the aviation, defense, energy, and aerospace sectors, which are driving manufacturers toward localized and resilient supply chains.
The additional Sapphire XC will enhance Mears' production capacity in nickel-based superalloys and aluminum, covering materials such as Inconel 718, Haynes 282, and CP1 aluminum, and enable the company to validate more materials as customer requirements evolve. Mears integrates three business segments: precision machining, metal additive manufacturing, and engineering services.
The Sapphire XC platform is equipped with Velo3D's Flow print preparation software and Assure quality reporting tools, coupled with software-driven calibration and standardized process controls. According to Velo3D, these controls ensure output consistency across different systems and production locations. The platform is specifically designed for producing large, complex metal components that are difficult or impossible to manufacture using traditional methods.
James Lloyd, CEO of Mears Machine Corporation, stated that customers increasingly need manufacturing partners capable of supporting the entire process from concept to production, rather than just part processing. "We have proven our ability to deliver results for customers in the world's most challenging industries. The procurement of a fifth Velo3D system, along with the flexibility to scale capacity as demand grows, allows us to maintain the responsiveness and lead times our customers expect, while supporting larger-scale production projects and making responsible investments for long-term growth."
Arun Jeldi, CEO of Velo3D, added that manufacturers have moved beyond the prototyping stage and are now seeking confidence in scaled production. "Mears continues to demonstrate thoughtfulness and discipline in developing advanced manufacturing capabilities. Its investment reflects confidence in market opportunities and the value of a scalable manufacturing platform. Together, we will help customers accelerate validation, reduce time to market, and build distributed manufacturing strategies in the aviation, defense, energy, and aerospace sectors."
Velo3D recently opened a new 289,000-square-foot facility in Livermore, California, to address growing market demand in the aerospace and defense sectors.
