Taking 3D printing from rapid prototyping to true additive manufacturing isn’t going to happen overnight, even if we are starting to see the beginning of high-volume additive manufacturing. Part of this transition involves finding the right manufacturing applications for 3D printing technology, as well as tackling the additive learning curve.
Ultimately, however, making the transition comes down to research—professional engineers and students putting the time in to develop new methods that demonstrate how additive manufacturing can reduce lead times and streamline costs.
That’s why Phoenix Analysis and Design Technologies (PADT) has teamed up with Stratasys to unveil a new additive manufacturing lab in Colorado at the Metropolitan State University of Denver. Expected to open later this fall, the Lockheed Martin Additive Manufacturing Laboratory will be dedicated to using 3D printing for the creation of composite tooling applications.
At the centerpiece of this lab are additive technology solutions from Stratasys, specifically, the Fortus 900mc Production 3D Printer. The lab is being funded through a grant from Lockheed Martin Space Systems.
“Building the Lockheed Martin Additive Manufacturing Laboratory at MSU Denver is a major development in the progression of additive manufacturing tooling applications,” said Rey Chu, principal and co-founder, manufacturing technologies at PADT.
Initially deployed at MSU Denver, the additive manufacturing curriculum will later become available for use by other academic institutions across the country. Additionally, PADT will work with MSU Denver, Lockheed Martin and other users to build a Fortus 900mc Users Group within the Rocky Mountain region.
“We have no doubt the lab will quickly become a cornerstone of additive manufacturing innovation across the State of Colorado,” said Tim Schniepp, director of composite solutions at Stratasys.
For more information, visit the websites for PADT and Stratasys.