Midlands 3D in Stone opens most automated 3D print manufacturing operation in UK
Stone-based Midlands 3D has unveiled what is believed to be the most automated polymer 3D print production facility in operation in the UK.
The company has been at the forefront of the industry, which has gone from prototyping and 'one off' part production to being used increasingly for batch production in quantities and quality ready for end use parts, and has invested in the latest tools, machines and techniques to keep ahead of customer demand in providing 3D print manufacturing as a service.
Last week, Midlands 3D threw open the doors of its new HQ at an industry open day to demonstrate its latest investments and new capability.
More than quadrupling its floor space in the recent move, Midlands 3D has taken the opportunity to upgrade its fleet of market leading HP MultiJet Fusion (MJF) Printers, adding automation to each.
The system enables machines to automatically change their 'build unit' once a build is complete, enabling another build to begin within minutes. Utilising the technologies enables the machines to run continuously, dramatically increasing overall efficiency, lowering operating costs and lead times for large print runs.
François Minec, VP and global head of sales and business development at HP Additive Manufacturing Solutions, said: “The shift toward industrial production using Multi Jet Fusion is not only real but it’s accelerating at pace and what Midlands 3D have built is a timely response to that growth.
“The scale and the quality of output coming out of their new facility clearly demonstrate how additive manufacturing can deliver both lower costs and faster lead times at volume. It is a compelling example of how UK manufacturing is alive and thriving, and why doubling down on automation and end-to-end capability is exactly what this moment demands."
In addition, Midlands 3D had invested in the automated “Powerfuse”, vapour smoothing system from industry leaders, DyeMansion.
A new finishing option alongside deep dye colouring and Polyshot surfacing, the technology gives printed parts a smoother, stronger, scratch resistant and waterproof finish.
MD and founder, Paul Moloney, said: "We saw the tipping point where production manufacturing became a bigger part of the business than prototyping last year.
“We’re running hard to keep up with demand, and the dramatic expansion in both capacity and capability you see demonstrated here is the next big milestone. 3D Print manufacturing is exploding right now, but there are so many industries who are still barely dipping their toes in the water.
“Being in the heart of the Midlands is a terrific location to support UK manufacturing, and we’re just getting started in terms of what is possible with Additive Manufacturing (3D printing) going forward."
Attendees at the open day were able to look around two Midlands 3D sponsored British Touring Cars and chat to members of the WSR Racing team in attendance.
Working together with Midlands 3D, they have developed more than 100 printed parts for use on the cars and in the pit lane, contributing to the competitive edge that saw the WSR team recently crowned the most successful British Touring Car team in history.
Paul added: “We love working with customers helping them derive the most value from adopting the technology across their supply chain.
“We operate an open-door policy and welcome customers to visit our facility, especially now work on our new HQ is complete."
