Supposedly they are making the materials it can use 'open,' meaning that you might be able to refill it with your own powder. The interesting thing is, they have to do this because of the market they are targeting.
HP is targeting the service bureau market with this machine. Services bureaus are companies that 3d print parts for people. Service bureaus really like to run a wide variety of different materials. Like special high strength blends, flexible, lost wax casting blends, and special fireproof materials for airplanes. Running different materials lets service bureaus differentiate themselves from other service bureaus. In addition, certain markets like lost wax casting and aerospace have to use certain special materials.
Although what HP might end up doing is selling ink or inkjet heads. This machine literally works by spraying black ink down where one wants part.
HP is targeting the service bureau market with this machine. Services bureaus are companies that 3d print parts for people. Service bureaus really like to run a wide variety of different materials. Like special high strength blends, flexible, lost wax casting blends, and special fireproof materials for airplanes. Running different materials lets service bureaus differentiate themselves from other service bureaus. In addition, certain markets like lost wax casting and aerospace have to use certain special materials.
Although what HP might end up doing is selling ink or inkjet heads. This machine literally works by spraying black ink down where one wants part.