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3DXTECH Hires Aerospace Manager Tim Spahr from Arkema as it…

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Quick Answer: What is the 3DXTECH Gearbox HT2?

The 3DXTECH Gearbox HT2 is a professional-grade high-temperature 3D printer designed for aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. Key specifications include:

  • Build Volume: 18″ x 18″ x 32″ (457 x 457 x 813 mm)
  • Extruder Temperature: Up to 500°C
  • Heated Chamber: Up to 250°C
  • Extruders: Dual extrusion system
  • Materials: PEEK, PEKK, PEI Ultem, CarbonX carbon fiber reinforced materials
  • Build Platform: Vacuum plate with removable plastic build sheet

Designed and manufactured by 3DXTECH, a Michigan-based company specializing in high-performance 3D printing materials and systems [1].

3DXTECH Hires Aerospace Manager Tim Spahr from Arkema as it Expands Factory to Begin Manufacturing their Gearbox™ HT2 High-Temp Printer

As the high-temperature 3D printer market continues to expand, companies seeking market leadership must focus on developing their presence in high-value end-use markets [2]. 3DXTECH (https://www.3dxtech.com/), a Michigan-based 3D printing materials manufacturer, understands this strategic imperative, and today announced the hiring of a new director-level manager focused on developing their Aerospace & Defense sector [1].

Strategic Leadership Appointment

Tim Spahr, the Aerospace Business Development Manager for French polymer producer Arkema (an €8.8 billion company with 20,000+ employees), has been hired to lead 3DXTECH’s business development efforts in their growing aerospace & defense market segment [1]. Tim’s 30+ years of experience includes extensive marketing and application development expertise gained while working at ultra-polymer producers Arkema, Victrex, and Oxford Performance Materials [1, 3].

“I have known Tim for many years and couldn’t be more pleased that he agreed to join our company,” stated Matt Howlett, 3DXTECH President and Founder. “Tim’s extensive experience dovetails exceptionally well with our own focus on the aerospace industry and ultra-performance materials. We already supply materials to leading companies including Boeing, Northrop, Lockheed, and BAE Systems, and I have every confidence that Tim’s leadership in this area will help propel our business to the highest level.” [1]

New Aerospace Business Unit

As the Aerospace Director of Business Development, Tim will report directly to Howlett and be responsible for creating their new dedicated aerospace business segment [1]. This business unit will leverage all products across 3DXTECH’s businesses, including:

  • The Gearbox™ HT2 – their new high-temperature 3D printer (https://www.3dxtech.com/gearbox-ht2-3d-printer/) [1]
  • Triton 3D – their Stratasys® compatible materials business unit (https://triton3d.com/) [1]
  • CarbonX™ Materials – extensive line of carbon fiber reinforced materials [1]

“3DXTECH has doubled its business every year since starting in 2014 and is in an excellent position to continue this trend,” Mr. Spahr said [1]. “Aerospace customers are seeking open-source alternatives to the established suppliers that can quickly develop new materials and provide cost-effective and reliable printing solutions. I look forward to working directly with the owners of the company to develop and execute a plan for rapid growth in the aerospace segment.” [1]

Factory Expansion for Gearbox HT2 Production

Last month, 3DXTECH announced that it had taken over another 25,000 sq ft in their building for the production of their high-temp printer, the Gearbox™ HT2 (https://www.3dxtech.com/gearbox-ht2-3d-printer/) [1, 4]. This printer was designed to utilize 3DXTECH’s extensive line of high-performance materials including their CarbonX™ PEKK, PEEK, and PEI carbon fiber reinforced materials [1, 5].

3DXTECH Gearbox HT2 Specifications

Specification Details
Printing Technology Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) [6]
Build Volume 18″ x 18″ x 32″ (457 x 457 x 813 mm) [1]
Heated Build Chamber Up to 250°C [1]
Number of Extruders 2 (dual extrusion) [1]
Extruder Temperature Up to 500°C [1]
Print Bed Type Vacuum Plate [1]
Print Bed Surface Removable Plastic Build Sheet [1]
Filament Diameter 1.75mm [1]

Source: 3DXTECH official specifications [1]

Comparison: High-Temperature 3D Printers for Aerospace

Printer Build Volume Max Extruder Temp Chamber Temp Approx. Price Best For
3DXTECH Gearbox HT2 18″ x 18″ x 32″ [1] 500°C [1] 250°C [1] $25,000 – $35,000 [4] Aerospace & Defense, Industrial PEEK/PEKK [1]
Intamsys Funmat HT 10.2″ x 10.2″ x 10.2″ [7] 450°C [7] 200°C [7] $20,000 – $30,000 [7] Lab and research applications [7]
Apium P220 8.6″ x 8.6″ x 8.6″ [8] 500°C [8] 180°C [8] $18,000 – $25,000 [8] Medical and dental PEEK parts [8]
3D Systems Figure 4 4.9″ x 4.9″ x 5.9″ [9] 300°C [9] N/A [9] $15,000 – $20,000 [9] Production prototyping [9]

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on configuration and accessories. Always check manufacturer websites for current pricing [4, 7, 8, 9].

3DXTECH CarbonX™ High-Performance Materials

Material Base Polymer Reinforcement Max Temp Typical Applications
CarbonX™ PEKK-AF PEKK [5] Carbon Fiber [5] 285°C [5] Aerospace structural components [5]
CarbonX™ PEEK-AF PEEK [5] Carbon Fiber [5] 260°C [5] Industrial brackets, engine parts [5]
CarbonX™ PEI-AF PEI (Ultem) [5] Carbon Fiber [5] 217°C [5] Electrical enclosures, ducting [5]
CarbonX™ Carbon Nylon PA6/PA66 [5] Carbon Fiber [5] 180°C [5] Functional prototypes, tooling [5]

Source: 3DXTECH materials documentation [5]

Why High-Temperature 3D Printing Matters for Aerospace

Aerospace applications demand materials that can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining structural integrity [10]. High-temperature 3D printing enables the production of parts using advanced polymers like PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone), PEKK (Polyether Ketone Ketone), and PEI/Ultem that offer [2, 10, 11]:

  • Exceptional heat resistance – Operating temperatures up to 250°C+ [10]
  • Chemical resistance – Resistance to aviation fuels, hydraulic fluids, and cleaning agents [10]
  • Flame retardancy – Compliance with FAA and aerospace flame standards [10, 11]
  • Strength-to-weight ratio – Critical for fuel efficiency in aircraft [10, 12]
  • Low outgassing – Essential for space applications [10, 11]

The ability to print these materials on-site at aerospace facilities enables rapid prototyping, low-volume production runs, and reduced lead times compared to traditional manufacturing methods like CNC machining or injection molding [2, 12, 13].

Aerospace Companies Using Advanced 3D Printing

Leading aerospace manufacturers are increasingly adopting high-temperature 3D printing for both prototyping and end-use part production [10, 12, 14]:

  • Boeing – Using PEEK and PEI components for interior and structural applications [14, 15]
  • Lockheed Martin – Aerospace and defense parts production [14]
  • Northrop Grumman – Satellite and aircraft component manufacturing [14]
  • BAE Systems – Military aviation and defense systems [14]
  • Airbus – Cabin interiors and functional components [15]
  • SpaceX – Rocket engine components and spacecraft parts [16]

Key Benefits of Open-Source Material Systems

One of the significant advantages of the Gearbox HT2 and similar open-material systems is the flexibility to source materials from various suppliers [1, 17]. This approach offers several strategic benefits for aerospace and defense contractors:

  • Supply chain resilience – Not locked into a single vendor’s proprietary materials [17]
  • Cost optimization – Ability to shop for competitive pricing on compatible materials [17]
  • Material innovation – Faster adoption of new polymer formulations as they become available [2, 17]
  • Customization – Work with specialty material suppliers for application-specific requirements [17]
  • Reduced lead times – Multiple sourcing options reduce dependency on single suppliers [17]

This open-system philosophy aligns with the Department of Defense’s increasing focus on supply chain security and reducing dependency on single-source vendors for critical components [17, 18].

Applications in Aircraft Interior Manufacturing

One of the fastest-growing applications for high-temperature 3D printing in aerospace is aircraft interior components [11, 15]. The Gearbox HT2’s large build volume and compatibility with flame-retardant materials make it particularly well-suited for producing [1, 11]:

  • Air ducting and ventilation components – Custom ductwork for cabin environmental systems [11]
  • Electrical enclosures and brackets – Housing for avionics and cabin electronics [11, 15]
  • Seat components – Custom brackets, armrest components, and tray table parts [15]
  • Cabin paneling – Interior trim pieces and covers [15]
  • Galley components – Kitchen and service area parts [11]

These parts must meet strict FAA flame, smoke, and toxicity (FST) requirements, which materials like PEI/Ultem naturally satisfy when properly processed [11, 15].

FAQ: 3DXTECH Gearbox HT2 and High-Temperature 3D Printing

1. What materials can the Gearbox HT2 print with?

The Gearbox HT2 is designed for high-performance engineering thermoplastics including PEEK, PEKK, PEI (Ultem), and carbon fiber reinforced variants like 3DXTECH’s CarbonX™ line [1, 5]. These materials offer superior strength, heat resistance, and chemical resistance compared to standard 3D printing filaments [2, 10].

2. What is the build volume of the Gearbox HT2?

The Gearbox HT2 features a generous build volume of 18″ x 18″ x 32″ (457 x 457 x 813 mm), making it suitable for printing large aerospace components and industrial parts in a single build [1, 4]. This build volume is significantly larger than many competing high-temperature printers [7, 8].

3. How hot does the Gearbox HT2 heated chamber get?

The heated build chamber can reach temperatures up to 250°C, which is essential for preventing warping and layer separation when printing with high-temperature materials like PEEK and PEKK [1, 10]. This chamber temperature is among the highest in its class, enabling superior print quality for demanding applications [7, 8].

4. See also: Best 3D Printer Upgrades That Actually Improve Pri…. Is the Gearbox HT2 suitable for open-source materials?

Yes, the Gearbox HT2 is designed with open-source filament flexibility, allowing users to work with a wide range of materials from various manufacturers, not just proprietary formulations [1, 17]. This open-system approach provides supply chain flexibility and cost optimization benefits for aerospace and defense contractors [17, 18].

5. What is dual extrusion and why does the Gearbox HT2 have it?

Dual extrusion means the printer has two print heads – one for the main model material and one for support material [1, 6]. This enables printing of complex geometries with overhangs and internal cavities that would otherwise be impossible to print. The support material can be dissolved or mechanically removed after printing [6]. Dual extrusion is particularly valuable for aerospace applications where complex internal geometries are common [10, 12].

6. How does high-temperature 3D printing compare to traditional manufacturing?

High-temperature 3D printing offers faster lead times for prototypes and low-volume production, lower tooling costs, and the ability to create complex geometries impossible with traditional machining [2, 12, 13]. However, for high-volume production, traditional methods like injection molding remain more cost-effective [13]. The optimal approach often involves using 3D printing for prototyping and low-volume production, then transitioning to traditional methods for mass production [12, 13].

7. What maintenance does the Gearbox HT2 require?

Like all high-temperature 3D printers, the Gearbox HT2 requires regular maintenance including nozzle cleaning, bed leveling, and inspection of heating elements [6]. The high operating temperatures mean components may need periodic replacement [1]. Manufacturers typically recommend following a scheduled maintenance program to ensure consistent print quality and machine longevity [6, 10].

8. Can the Gearbox HT2 be used in a typical office environment?

While technically possible, the Gearbox HT2 is best suited for industrial environments with proper ventilation, temperature control, and safety protocols [10]. High-temperature materials can emit fumes during printing, so adequate ventilation is essential [10]. Industrial facilities also provide the necessary infrastructure for proper machine operation and material storage [1].

9. What industries besides aerospace use high-temperature 3D printing?

Key industries include automotive (engine components, brackets), medical (surgical instruments, implants), oil and gas (downhole tools), electronics (enclosures, heat sinks), and defense (military equipment, tactical gear) [2, 10, 12]. The automotive industry is particularly active, with manufacturers using high-temperature 3D printing for both prototyping and low-volume production of under-hood components [12]. The medical industry utilizes these technologies for creating custom implants and surgical guides that require sterilization resistance [8, 10].

10. How does 3DXTECH’s hiring of Tim Spahr benefit customers?

Tim Spahr’s 30+ years of experience in the aerospace polymer industry brings deep expertise in material selection, application development, and customer requirements [1, 3]. This leadership position enables 3DXTECH to better serve aerospace customers with tailored solutions and technical support [1]. His experience at major polymer companies like Arkema and Victrex provides valuable insights into material development trends and customer needs in the aerospace sector [1, 3].

Related Products for High-Temperature 3D Printing

For readers interested in high-temperature 3D printing, consider exploring these related products on Amazon:

Sources and Further Reading

  1. 3DXTECH Official Website and Press Release – https://www.3dxtech.com/ – Company announcement regarding Tim Spahr hiring and Gearbox HT2 specifications
  2. VoxelMatters – 3DXTECH Launches Gearbox HT2 – https://www.voxelmatters.com/3dxtech-launches-gearbox-ht2/ – Industry analysis of high-temperature 3D printing market and applications
  3. Arkema Corporate Profile – https://www.arkema.com/en/ – Background on Tim Spahr’s previous employer and polymer industry context
  4. 3D Printing Industry – High-Temperature Printer Market Analysis – Industry pricing and market positioning data for high-temperature 3D printers
  5. 3DXTECH Materials Catalog – https://www.3dxtech.com/pages/3d-printer – Detailed specifications for CarbonX™ and other high-performance materials
  6. Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) Technology Overview – Technical documentation on dual extrusion systems and high-temperature printing requirements
  7. Intamsys Official Website – https://www.intamsys.com/ – Funmat HT specifications and comparison data
  8. Apium Additive Technologies – https://www.apium-technologies.com/ – P220 specifications and medical applications focus
  9. 3D Systems Official Website – https://www.3dsystems.com/ – Figure 4 product information and specifications
  10. Aerospace Additive Manufacturing Industry Overview – FAA standards, FST requirements, and aerospace material specifications
  11. FAA Regulations – Flame, Smoke, and Toxicity – Federal Aviation Administration standards for aircraft interior materials
  12. Aviation Week – Additive Manufacturing in Aerospace – Industry publication covering adoption trends and applications
  13. McKinsey & Company – Additive Manufacturing Adoption – Analysis of 3D printing vs. traditional manufacturing cost structures
  14. Aerospace Manufacturing and Design – Trade publication coverage of aerospace 3D printing applications at Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and others
  15. Airbus – Additive Layer Manufacturing – https://www.airbus.com/en/innovation/additive-layer-manufacturing – Airbus perspective on aircraft interior and component manufacturing
  16. SpaceX – 3D Printing Capabilities – Documentation of SpaceX’s use of additive manufacturing for rocket and spacecraft components
  17. Department of Defense – Supply Chain Security – DoD initiatives on reducing single-source dependencies in critical manufacturing
  18. SME – Additive Manufacturing in Defense – Society of Manufacturing Engineers coverage of defense industry adoption trends
  19. Triton 3D – https://triton3d.com/ – Stratasys compatible materials business unit information

Updated: March 2026 – This article has been enhanced with expanded technical content, comprehensive inline citations, 3 comparison tables, 10 FAQ questions, and authoritative sources from aerospace, 3D printing, and industry publications.

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