Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) is collaborating with Materialise (Nasdaq MTLS), a global leader in 3D printing solutions, to drive Singapore companies to adopt this digital production technology.

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), provides performance enhancement, weight saving and time and cost advantages that are impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods, paving the way towards a true end-to-end digital manufacturing process. A report by Reports and Data last year estimates that this market will be worth USD 26.68 billion by 2027. Its applications range from prototype production, on-demand spare parts, personalised goods to different component manufacturing. 3D printing is already being used in aerospace, marine, automotive, medical, and many other industries. Industrial users can learn and unlock these benefits to be able to apply 3D printing and thus gain competitive advantages in the market.

Companies in Asia-Pacific, while eager to be part of this manufacturing revolution, lack the appropriate know-how to take advantage of it. In a survey commissioned by Materialise in November 2019 among Chinese manufacturers, 41% cited a lack of expertise as a major hurdle in adopting 3D printing for their manufacturing process.

To stimulate the adoption of AM, the two organisations have developed a Continuing Education and Training course for working professionals, Deep Dive into Professional 3D Printing. Additionally, Materialise will equip NYP’s Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) with its advanced 3D software.

Professionals will be able to delve into design possibilities of 3D printing and explore the various uses and digital processes. They will discover practical and economic insights on how the technology creates business value.

AMIC Centre Director and Deputy Director at the NYP School of Engineering, Desmond Tan, adds, “NYP is excited to co-develop and deliver this course with Materialise, to equip Singaporeans with comprehensive knowledge for the application and potential of 3D printing and AM technologies. This will allow them to leverage growing opportunities and incorporate these technologies into their business, and also enable regional companies to innovate and enhance their operations.”

As part of the collaboration, Materialise will also provide NYP’s AMIC with its latest software — Materialise Magics 3D Print Suite. The state-of-the-art AMIC, which supports both plastic and metal 3D printing, is committed to helping companies with adoption. This may include early stages of research and development work such as rapid prototyping, proof of concept, and more. AMIC will also offer a platform for co-creation, collaboration, and incubation services between industries.

Materialise Malaysia’s Sales Director, Kelvin Wee, notes, “3D printing has developed into a valuable complementary production technology. Because of its design freedom, it enables lightweight design and improved functionality of parts. Its digital nature facilitates flexible manufacturing: on-demand, decentralised, and networked. We are looking forward to working with NYP to guide companies along their 3D printing journey.”

Other future collaborations between NYP and Materialise include training sessions and overseas attachment opportunities by Materialise. This knowledge transfer will also support NYP to further promote AM to Singapore’s industry through joint development projects, seminars, workshops, and courses.