Belgian eyewear manufacturer Hoet, in partnership with production partner Raytech and system provider EOS, has launched a series of titanium eyeglass frames produced using metal 3D printing technology.
Filigree and partially mesh‑like structures that are difficult or even impossible to achieve with conventional methods have now become a reality through additive manufacturing.
Hoet’s managing director cited three main reasons for choosing 3D printing: achieving designs that standard technologies cannot realize; producing frames in different sizes without additional tooling costs; and leveraging a green technology whose flexibility significantly reduces energy and material consumption.
The frames are produced using the DMLS (direct metal laser sintering) process, in which a laser melts titanium powder layer by layer to form the finished part. The material used is EOS Titanium Ti64, which offers a favorable balance of light weight, strength, and flexibility—making it well suited for eyewear applications. Raytech, as EOS’s partner in Belgium, handled the technical implementation, drawing on its extensive experience in demanding industrial additive manufacturing applications.
From system installation to the market launch of the first frames took just two months, dramatically shortening the time‑to‑market. Hoet noted that additive manufacturing not only expands the possibilities for eyewear design but also transforms the production process. Compared with conventional techniques, the technology allows designers to overcome geometric limitations while enabling efficient small‑batch production across multiple sizes.
The head of Raytech pointed out that EOS’s professional application consulting, rapid responsiveness, and leading technology systems were key factors in the collaboration. In particular, the partner’s expertise in the optical field and in working with titanium ensured the project proceeded smoothly.
Hoet concluded: “We want to bring truly new products to the market. With additive manufacturing, we are continuing our brand’s longstanding philosophy—new materials and new technologies bring added functionality and advanced aesthetics to eyewear design.”
