What happened
Shares of 3D Systems Corporation (DDD -2.59%) jumped as much as 11.5% in trading on Monday after announcing two new products. At 3:30 p.m. EDT shares were still trading 11% higher.
So what
3D Systems said it began shipping 3DXpert software with direct metal printers, which it said can lead to 40% productivity gains and a 75% reduction in processing time. The goal is to allow customers to use a single software solution instead of multiple pieces of software to create parts.
Image of the software 3D Systems is bringing to customers to offer a single software solution. Image source: 3D Systems.
It also introduced a multi-material ProJet MJP 5600 3D printer that's expected to lower costs and improve speed for customers. The new printer also brings larger form factors, allowing an even wider array of parts.
Now what
Both of these new products are big steps forward in making 3D printing more mainstream. Multi-material parts are a key advancement for the industry and metals are going to be the next growth market for 3D Systems. It'll take some time before these new products begin impacting financial results, but if they live up to management's statements in press releases today they could be game changers long term.
