Rapid liquid print raises $7 million to scale its support-free, gel 3d printing technology
Rapid Liquid Print (RLP), a 3D printing spin-off from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has raised $7 million in series A funding.
- Published
May 30, 2024
- Last update
September 28, 2024
Based in Boston, RLP’s gel-dispensing technology enables the production of soft, pliable, and large-scale products in a matter of minutes. Currently, this technology is being used to 3D print parts for customers across a range of industries, including the medical, automotive and consumer goods sectors.
The company will leverage its new capital to scale its production capabilities, expand its employee base, and build additional business areas.
What is Rapid Liquid Printing?
First introduced at Design Miami 2017, RLP’s technology allows 3D objects to be “drawn” within a gel suspension. Here, a liquid material mixture is injected into the gel, which holds the material in place as it is cured, negating the need for support structures. The 3D printing process is completed in a matter of minutes, with the final parts requiring minimal post-processing.
According to RLP, this process allows for the high throughput production of large-scale components with complex geometries. These parts can be 3D printed using industry-standard materials like foams, rubbers and silicones. The company claims that its process is superior to other elastomeric 3D printing technologies, as it is not restricted by speed or size limitations.
RLP also points to the sustainability benefits of its technology, with the gel able to be reused in multiple 3D print jobs. Moreover, parts 3D printed in silicone can be fully recycled at the end of the product life cycle.
Initially, RLP technology was targeted to interior design applications, such as the production of 3D printed furniture. However, the company has now expanded its reach, catering to the needs of researchers and companies requiring medical devices, footwear, home goods, aviation, and automotive components.
RLP raises $7 million in series A funding
Led by HZG Group, the financing round also drew backing from existing investors BMW i Ventures and MassMutual through its MM Catalyst Fund (MMCF).
This adds to HZG’s growing €60 million Tech Fund, which has a dedicated focus on 3D printing startups. The firm primarily targets Europe’s DACH region, with RLP representing only its second US investment.
RLP’s CEO and Co-founder Schendy Kernizan calls HZG Group, “an investor who recognizes the full potential of our technology and has its own track record of setting standards with the introduction of metal 3D printing on an industrial scale.” He believes that the new partnership will help take RLP’s technology “to the next level,” with the company benefiting from HZG’s expertise and connections in the tech space.
BMW i Ventures and MassMutual’s interest in RLP dates back to 2021 when they first provided the company with seed funding to expand its elastomer 3D printing product portfolio.