The Shadowbrook Trope and Vibrato faucets mdash the first commerciallyavailable residential faucets created with 3D printing mdash from DXV have been named a 2016 RampD 100 Award finalist in the Process and Prototyping Category in recognition of their innovative designs and new application of additive manufacturing technology

Groundbreaking collection of DXV 3D printed faucets named R&D 100 Award finalist

Nov. 7, 2016
The faucets were created using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) A computer-guided laser beam fuses powdered metal into the desired shape with high heat and pressure This 3D printing process opens up exciting possibilities for the design and function of faucets

PISCATAWAY, NJ ― The DXV collection of 3D printed residential faucets ― the Vibrato, Trope and Shadowbrook styles ― have been named a 2016 R&D 100 Award finalist in the Process and Prototyping category. This year’s R&D 100 Award winners were announced on Nov. 3 at a black-tie awards dinner at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Md.

The Vibrato, Trope and Shadowbrook models are the first-ever collection of 3D printed metal faucets created using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), a revolutionary additive manufacturing process. While this technique has been used to create plastic prototypes for years, these are the first ready-for-market residential faucets printed in metal.

“This prestigious recognition is a meaningful validation of the incredible efforts put forth by our DXV product design team. They pushed the boundaries of cutting-edge technologies to make it possible to create the delicate and dazzling forms of these 3D printed faucets,” said Jean-Jacques L’Henaff, vice president of design for faucets and fixtures — and team lead on the 3D faucet development — for LIXIL Water Technology Americas, the global business unit under which DXV operates.

The faucets are printed using a computer-guided laser beam that fuses powdered metal into the desired shape with high heat and pressure. A solid metal block gradually arises out of the powder, and is then hand-finished to smooth extraneous metal and reveal the design. In a revival of bespoke craftsmanship, the faucet is then hand-finished by an artisan who gives it a rich, fine patina and feel that mimics the texture found on antique silver pieces.

This 3D printing process opens up exciting possibilities for the design and function of faucets, enabling avant-garde ways to present water and completely redefine the user experience, as each of the DXV 3D printed faucets distinctly showcases.

“These unique faucets represent a continuation of our proud 140-year-old tradition of innovation and incredible craftsmanship, starting with American Standard Brands and growing further with our luxury DXV line,” said Maha El Kharbotly, chief marketing officer for LIXIL Water Technology Americas. “We are so proud of this well-deserved honor and remain committed to our role as a leader in the paradigm shift represented by additive manufacturing in the building and construction industry.”

The R&D 100 Awards — widely regarded as the “Oscars of Invention” —  began in 1963 to recognize revolutionary technologies in the marketplace. Past winners reign from industry, academia and government-sponsored research, and have featured biomedical products, consumer goods, chemistry breakthroughs, innovative new materials, high-energy physics and sophisticated testing equipment.

These first-of-their-kind DXV 3D printed faucets have also recognized for their styling and operational innovation by the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) as their 2016 Best of Show Gold winner in the Bath category; a Best of BDwest Product Design Award from Boutique Design; a Platinum A’ Design Award; and a Silver International Design Excellence Award (IDEA).

For more information on the DXV 3D printed metal faucets, visit www.dxv.com or call 800/227-2734.

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