3D Systems’ Parent Firm Posts Gain in 4th Quarter

3-D Systems, the Canadian parent of 3D Systems in Valencia, said it earned $476,104 in the fourth quarter, compared with a $1.53-million loss a year earlier.

The company’s Valencia subsidiary makes a machine that combines a laser, computer and chemicals to rapidly produce models of parts and other equipment for designers and manufacturers. The company began full-scale production of its machines last year, and shipped 94 of the units during 1989.

As a result, 3-D Systems’ sales in the quarter ended Dec. 31 surged to $6.67 million from $1.81 million a year earlier. For all of 1989, the company lost $1.95 million, compared with a $4.72-million loss in 1988, and its annual revenue climbed to $17.5 million from $4.48 million.