Additive Manufacturing is using 3D printers, data and computer-aided design to create completely customisable parts and products on demand and at lower cost. In the process it is transforming a spectrum of industries, including aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, medical components and devices and robotics.
Through 3D Additive, an AU$5 million multi-institutional collaboration led by The University of Sydney, our researchers are working with university and defence partners to develop new alloys for use in place of traditional components and structures, as well as production methods enabling them to be produced in the field without the need for deep technical expertise.
The collaboration aims to revolutionise Australia’s ability to produce parts and tooling locally, making expensive equipment and infrastructure more accessible and cheaper to repair. This will help industry benefit from expected growth in this sector, which is predicted to reach US$34 billion by 2026.