FABTECH 2015 Brings Roaring 3D Scanning Event to Art Institute of Chicago

CHICAGO, Sept. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- FABTECH 2015, North America's largest collaboration of technology, equipment and knowledge in the metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing industry, brought 3D scanning technology to the steps of the Art Institute of Chicago last week.

Exact Metrology, a 3D scanning solutions company, used its Surphaser technology — known for its high accuracy and scan data quality — to 3D scan the museum's nine-foot-tall south guardian lion, sculpted by Edward L. Kemeys (1843-1907). The iconic guardian lions have flanked the Art Institute's Michigan Avenue entrance for more than 100 years and have become a symbol of the museum and city.

"At FABTECH, we explore new and innovative technology; 3D printing is just one example that is driving major change for manufacturers of all types. What better way to celebrate the future of the industry than showcasing this amazing technology in such a special place," said John Catalano, SME co-show manager, FABTECH. "Manufacturing is critical to our country, our economy and our future. It's an exciting time to be involved in this field as new technologies, processes and opportunities are truly changing how the industry operates."

During the event, attendees witnessed the scanning technology firsthand and heard from industry leaders about the process and benefits of 3D scanning and printing. Ed Youdell, president and CEO of FMA, FABTECH; Dean Solberg, vice president, Exact Metrology; and Carl Dekker, president, Met-L-Flo Inc., also discussed some of the advanced manufacturing technologies that will be showcased at FABTECH 2015, taking place at Chicago's McCormick Place, Nov. 9-12.

With the scanning portion of the project complete, Met-L-Flo Inc. will use scan data to print 300 small-scale replicas of the lion, which will be on display and used as giveaways at FABTECH.

To view the scanning event, please visit https://vimeo.com/139732704. To register to attend and find more information about FABTECH 2015, please visit fabtechexpo.com.

About FABTECH
FABTECH is North America's largest collaboration of technology, equipment and knowledge in the metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing industry. The event provides a powerfully aligned hands-on, face-to-face business growth experience, attracting more than 1,500 exhibitors and 40,000 attendees. The event is made possible by its five co-sponsors, all of whom representing the varied and diverse makeup of the manufacturing industry. They include SME, the American Welding Society (AWS), the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International (FMA), the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA), and the Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI). Read more about FABTECH's co-sponsors here.

About the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago collects, preserves and interprets works of art of the highest quality, representing the world's diverse artistic traditions, for the inspiration and education of the public and in accordance with our profession's highest ethical standards and practices.

About Exact Metrology
Exact Metrology is an ISO 9001: 2008 certified company that offers contract measurement & scanning services, metrology equipment solutions, and hardware & software rentals. Its goal is to provide customers with a specifically tailored solution to their measuring needs. To accomplish this, it offers more options, more products and more experience.

About Met-L-Flo Inc.
Met-L-Flo, Inc., is a contract manufacturer specializing in 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing services since 1991. It strives to partner with clients to implement innovative solutions for their product development and low volume production needs. Advanced applications of its technologies enable it to boost clients' competitiveness and enhance product success. Its commitment to Quality is solidified in the company's ITAR, ISO 9000 and AS 9100 Rev C Certifications.

As a leader in the industry, it prides itself on creating innovative, unconventional solutions that utilize both tool and tool-less applications. Products may be produced in metal, plastic, silicone, or wax including fiber reinforcement.

SOURCE FABTECH