The CSRIO has announced the opening of a new “innovation centre” that aims to accelerate industry adoption of metal 3D printing and other emerging additive manufacturing technologies.

‘Lab 22’ is a $6 million purpose-built facility that will provide Australian companies with access to specialist additive manufacturing equipment so the equipment can be trialled before it is purchased.

The equipment on hand, which includes the Arcam A1 metal printer, is in the range of $1 million per unit so this gives small and medium-sized business the ability to assess the suitability of the machines before purchasing.

3D printing service companies, Made for Me and Keech3D, were the first companies to sign up to use Lab 22’s new space with the aim of growing their metal 3D printing services.

The CSRIO says that Lab 22 experts will be on hand to help companies tailor design solutions, and have the ability to capture 3D data and simulate both the manufacturing process and in-service part performance.

We’re providing Australian companies with a unique opportunity to access some of the most advanced additive manufacturing equipment with the help of our experienced technical experts, for a comparatively minimal daily fee,” says CSIRO additive manufacturing research leader, Alex Kingsbury.

“We’ve already signed up four industry partners and welcome more companies to get on board.”

Cold spray deposition technology, laser heat treatment, surface engineering and advanced machinery are also available to improve efficiencies, performance and profitability.