GE commits to Australian additive manufacturing.

GE has signed a wide ranging MOU with the University of Sydney to conduct local research, speed the adoption of 3D printing, and potentially create new industrial opportunities in Australia in the fast-developing field.

The MOU, signed with GE Additive, is a boost to the university’s commitment to build a 1,000 square metre Additive Manufacturing and Advanced Materials Processing research facility.

Debbra Rogers, Chief Commercial Officer, GE Additive, said: “We were immediately impressed by the University of Sydney’s vision for additive manufacturing.

“(This is) not just at an academic level, but also because they understand the positive impact this technology can have on Australia’s economy and its workforce in the very near future.”

GE will invest up to US$1 million a year for 10 years in research at the university to help create Australia’s first additive manufacturing ecosystem.

The university will work to develop skills in the field and also invest in GE additive manufacturing technologies.

The MOU is intended to develop new applications, and potentially new 3D printing industries, creating positive economic impact.

Research will be undertaken in three areas:

# Image processing and data analytics

# Materials and powder technologies, such as alloy design and modification, post-processing optimization, and materials gaps in repairs

# Sensing technologies and advanced materials characterisation

The university’s is already actively involved in electron beam melting (EBM) technology developed by GE Additive company Arcam.

The University’s Professor Simon Ringer said: “This addition to the University’s core research facilities will allow our researchers and research partners to conduct trail-blazing fundamental research, and will directly benefit Australian industry, particularly our aerospace, transport, biomedical and defence sectors.”

Picture: University of Sydney: GE Additive staff tour the university

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