Transforming Telford

Around 50 guests celebrating the launch of the RAPID PD funded initiative heard how a new state-of-the-art metal laser sintering machine, located at the University of Wolverhampton’s Telford campus, is the first in the world to run using titanium.

The EOSINT M270 is onef of only five in the UK and the Innovative Product Development Centre (IPDC) has been chosen to demonstrate its titanium capability which will enable local and nationally based companies make components, tooling or prototypes out of this high strength, lightweight and heat resistant material.

Companies can improve their product innovation and rapid product development capabilities through RAPID PD which combines this latest technology and the technical resources and staff expertise of the IPDC team.

The IPDC is one of only five centres worldwide approved by EOS, the equipment manufacturers to support their development and application of this technologically advanced process. At the launch Mark Glasser, Regional Director for EOS GmbH Electro Optical Systems praised the IPDC for working closely with EOS based on its considerable experience in metal laser sintering technology and working with companies of different sizes and across many sectors, providing valuable feedback and advice for the development of new materials and processes.

The machine was purchased with a £650,000 grant from regional development agency Advantage West Midlands and further investment from the University of Wolverhampton, as part of the Wolverhampton Telford Technology Corridor (WTTC) initiative of promoting exciting innovation to benefit local businesses.

The EOSINT M270 makes components using the power of lasers to fuse metallic powder rather than removing waste material from a piece of metal. Its ability to work in titanium and other precious metals makes it of significant interest to companies involved in the medical, aerospace and motor-sport industries.

Potentially cheaper, faster and more environmentally friendly then traditional casting or machining, complex pieces can be produced for use in rapid prototyping, rapid low volume manufacturing, replacement parts and tooling inserts.

Mike Norris, Director, WTTC said: “Many of the UK’s most progressive manufacturers are evaluating this technology but few have actually made this level of investment. RAPID PD has enhanced the Midlands capability in process innovation and rapid product development. Local companies both large and small can now become early adopters of this latest technology, enabling them to modernise and innovate.”

Dr Phil Extance, Director of Innovation at Advantage West Midlands, said: “The combination of this exciting process, which provides an excellent way of making awkwardly shaped objects, with the huge benefits and challenges of using titanium, opens up tremendous opportunities for companies producing components for aerospace and other challenging environments. The facility readily complements the region’s existing investment in this fast growing area of manufacture and the West Midlands is establishing itself at the forefront of this technology.”

Dr Tony Robotham, IPDC Director said: “The IPDC already has experience in the first generation DMLS machines which means we are well positioned to help companies take full advantage of the new machine’s capabilities. RAPID PD effectively removes the risk, cost and skills barriers preventing a company from benefiting from these technologies. This second generation machine will broaden market opportunities as it works with new materials such as titanium and precious metals opening up new high growth sectors and we will also be of able to work in partnership with blue chip companies in high performance sectors on a commercial basis sharing knowledge across the UK.”

Ends

Picture: Dr Tony Robotham, University of Wolverhampton, Tony Powell – Powell & Harber, David Wright – Chief Executive of the Manufacturing Advisory Service West Midlands, Bill Harber – Powell & Harber with some of the latest tooling and sintered components during the launch of RAPID PD

Note to Editors: More information can be found at www.technology-corridor.co.uk

The Wolverhampton Telford Technology Corridor provides the focus for technology-led economic development in the region, encouraging innovations, stimulating new enterprise and attracting new investment. It is funded by Advantage West Midlands and led by the University of Wolverhampton

The Innovative Product Development Centre has a team of professionals that help companies develop new products turning innovative ideas into reality. The Centre is partially funded by the European Union and Advantage West Midlands and can offer funded services to eligible companies via projects such as the Advanced Engineering Cluster, the Polymer Cluster, Innovation Direct and the West Midlands Technology Network.

For further info contact Kim Gilmour on Tel: 01902 321748 or 07837 389 371 or kim.gilmour@technology–corridor.co.uk