Mantle

Overview

Mantle is a pioneering company in the 3D printing industry, specializing in precision metal 3D printing technology designed primarily for toolmaking. Founded by Ted Sorom and Steve Connor, Mantle has made significant strides in reducing manufacturing time and costs with its innovative TrueShape™ technology. The company has successfully raised over $61.5 million in funding through multiple rounds, including a notable Series C round in July 2024. Mantle's headquarters is located in San Francisco, California. The firm's advancements have positioned it as a leader in the niche of industrial 3D printing for molds and tooling inserts.

Recent Developments

July 2024: Mantle secured $20 million in Series C funding, raising the company’s total funding to over $61.5 million. The round was led by Schooner Capital, with participation from other investors such as Fine Structure Ventures and Foundation Capital. This investment is aimed at expanding Mantle's market presence and further developing its metal 3D printing capabilities.
May 2023: Mantle was awarded the SME Additive Manufacturing Start-Up Technology Award at the RAPID + TCT conference. This recognition was for its innovative approach to metal 3D printing for precision tooling, which has considerably reduced manufacturing costs and time by automating the tool-making process.
April 2023: Mantle introduced its high-precision shaping capabilities at the Plastics Technology Expo. This advancement combines 3D printing of tool steel pastes with CNC machining, significantly enhancing the accuracy, surface finish, and material properties of printed tools.
2023: The company continued to roll out its $350,000 machines capable of 3D printing mold inserts for injection-molded plastics. These machines aim to cut production time and improve efficiency in toolmaking processes.

Attribute	Information
Founding Date	2015
Headquarters	San Francisco, California, USA
Founders	Ted Sorom, Steve Connor
Key Investors	Schooner Capital, Foundation Capital, Fine Structure Ventures, Corazon Capital, 11.2 Capital
Industry	Metal 3D Printing for Toolmaking
Total Funding	Over $61.5 million

Early History

Mantle's journey began in 2015 when co-founders Ted Sorom and Steve Connor recognized the potential of 3D printing metal parts with unprecedented precision and speed. Initially experimenting with different metal powders and printing techniques, they discovered a unique process that combined the benefits of additive manufacturing with traditional machining. This innovation led to the development of TrueShape™ technology, Mantle's proprietary system that allows for the rapid production of high-quality tooling components. Through strategic investments and partnerships, Mantle quickly emerged as a leader in the niche segment of metal 3D printing for industrial applications.

Company Profile and Achievements

Mantle has established itself as a forerunner in the precision metal 3D printing industry. Its technology, TrueShape™, is specifically designed for producing injection mold tools and other precision tooling components. The company’s achievements include:

TrueShape™ Technology: Integrates 3D printing and CNC machining to deliver unmatched precision and quality in metal toolmaking. This technology allows for the creation of tools that are used across various industries, including automotive, consumer goods, and medical devices.
Multiple Awards and Recognition: Mantle has received numerous accolades for its contributions to additive manufacturing, including the SME Additive Manufacturing Start-Up Technology Award.
Production Impact: Mantle’s technology significantly reduces dependence on skilled labor and accelerates development cycles, cutting product development times by up to 90%. It allows manufacturers to produce millions of high-quality end-use parts, reducing tooling lead times and costs by over 65%.

Current Operations and Market Position

Currently, Mantle operates at the forefront of the 3D printing industry, offering solutions that dramatically reduce the time and costs associated with traditional toolmaking. Its precision metal 3D printing technology, TrueShape™, is used to manufacture high-quality tooling components perfect for demanding applications. Mantle enjoys a competitive advantage due to its cost-effective and efficient production systems, appealing to industrial manufacturers seeking to streamline their operations and minimize tooling complexities. The company's machines are valued for their ability to produce precise mold inserts quickly, making Mantle an attractive partner for businesses looking to enhance their manufacturing capabilities.

Conclusion

Mantle's innovative approach to metal 3D printing has established it as a leader in precision tool manufacturing. The company’s ability to integrate additive manufacturing with traditional machining processes has revolutionized the industry by significantly reducing time and costs. With ongoing investments and advancements in its TrueShape™ technology, Mantle is poised for substantial growth. Its commitment to innovation and efficiency enhances its reputation and market position, promising a strong trajectory in the evolving landscape of industrial 3D printing.