Mold and die manufacturing demands an exceptional level of precision, durability, and efficiency. From machining hardened alloys and maintaining repeatable micron-level accuracy to producing complex geometries with reduced lead times and costs, manufacturers must constantly balance performance with profitability. However, the adoption of new production technologies is often met with hesitation due to concerns over high capital investment, process reliability, and potential disruptions to well-established workflows.
Matsuura’s LUMEX series, the industry leader in hybrid metal additive manufacturing, eliminates these barriers by seamlessly integrating high-speed milling with selective laser sintering in a single machine. This innovative approach enables the direct production of complex molds and dies with conformal cooling channels, enhancing thermal management, reducing cycle times, and improving part quality. By combining additive and subtractive processes in a single-step workflow, Matsuura LUMEX ensures precision, repeatability, and efficiency—empowering manufacturers to embrace cutting-edge technology without compromising productivity or reliability.
Matsuura is currently offering the AM Moldmaking Start Guide at no cost. Download the PDF HERE.
More on the Matsuura LUMEX Technology:
In the 1990s, Matsushita Electric—now known as Panasonic—was at the forefront of metal 3D printing, utilizing German-made technology to produce and test high-performance molds with conformal cooling channels. However, they faced significant challenges in manufacturing complex mold cores with intricate slits and thin walls. Recognizing that the lead time for final products hinged on mold core production, they sought a more efficient solution. This need led to the development of the hybrid manufacturing method—combining additive and subtractive technologies for precision and efficiency. To bring this vision to life, Panasonic turned to Matsuura, a leader in machining center technology. Their collaboration led to the design of custom in-house equipment, ultimately evolving into a groundbreaking new business for Matsuura—one that continues to drive innovation in hybrid manufacturing today.
Learn more about the Matsuura LUMEX HERE.