OCTOBER, 20249Renishaw, a global leader in engineering technologies, has expanded the materials portfolio for its RenAM 500 series of metal additive manufacturing (AM) systems, introducing new options like commercially pure copper, H13 tool steel, Hastelloy X alloy, super-duplex stainless steel, and AlSi7Mg aluminum alloy. For the first time, Renishaw's material data sheets include results from Plastometrex's PIP (Profilometry-based Indentation Plastometry) testing. This advanced method offers rapid, precise evaluations of mechanical properties, complementing existing testing protocols.This expansion aims to meet evolving customer demands and opens up innovative applications across various industries. The new materials were developed in collaboration with customers, enabling laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) systems to accommodate more diverse applications.Renishaw also introduced new powder layer thicknesses for existing materials, including 90 m titanium grade 23, 70 m stainless steel 316L, and 120 m Inconel 718, which allow for higher material build rates.Marc Gardon, EMEA Additive Manufacturing Applications Manager, highlighted the relevance of new materials such as H13 tool steel, Hastelloy X alloy, and super-duplex stainless steel, specifically developed for industries like tooling, aerospace, and energy in Spain and Portugal, including SIMOLDES, ITP Aero, and ADDIMEN. Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD has decided to adopt an "import-only strategy" for the Indian market, following the Indian government's rejection of its $1-billion investment proposal to establish a car manufacturing plant. Under India's new EV policy, BYD will continue importing its vehicles rather than setting up a factory locally.Rajeev Chauhan, head of BYD's electric passenger vehicle business in India, announced this strategic shift while introducing the company's new multipurpose vehicle, the eMAX 7, priced between Rs 26.9 lakh and Rs 29.9 lakh (ex-showroom). Despite hefty customs duties, BYD aims to sell 3,500 units this year, reflecting a 40 percent increase from the previous year's sales of 2,500 units.Currently, BYD imports three models from China and believes this strategy is sufficient for the short term. However, Chauhan hinted at possible future investments in India, stating the company is open to expansion opportunities if conditions improve.Although import-only operations result in higher vehicle prices, BYD's strong supply chain has helped manage costs. Chauhan acknowledged that local manufacturing would have reduced prices but emphasized that the company has positioned its vehicles competitively despite the import model.Speculation also suggests that BYD is in discussions with Indian corporate houses for potential partnerships, similar to MG Motor's alliance with JSW Group, though no confirmation has been made. TOP STORIESNEW ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM REDEFINES CONVENTIONAL TESTINGBYD DISCARDS LOCAL MANUFACTURING, CONTINUES IMPORT STRATEGYDELIVERY
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