Dara Calleary
Question:108. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if Ireland has the capacity to develop additive manufacturing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51656/12]
View answerWednesday, 21 November 2012
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Written answers
The development of Additive Manufacturing has been slower than had been predicted some years ago and its adoption by industry worldwide has been relatively low, due to its cost and complexity. Additive Manufacturing involves the production of a component, part, tool or even an assembly, using a layer-upon-layer method of fabrication. While it can cut product development costs and timescales significantly, its advantages are more applicable to high-end complex components in a limited number of areas, including the aerospace, automotive and biomedical sectors. The growth of low-cost 3D printing systems more recently, may give Additive Manufacturing a new impetus over time and it is expected that other new developments in cost and applicability of equipment and materials will eventually see increased take -up in certain limited sectors.
The Government is keen to support technological developments such as this. Several Government-supported third-level institutions around the country have been developing expertise in Additive Manufacturing and have invested in equipment to support companies exploring options in this area.
Just last week, together with Minister Sherlock, I announced Science Foundation Ireland's Infrastructure Awards 2012, where one of the successful infrastructure investment projects relates to Additive Manufacturing. This comprises a state of the art printing system capable of creating realistic, full sized, soft tissue like anatomical models using a mix of different materials, generated from computer models or medically generated scans. This project is led by the University of Limerick and involves other academic and industry partners. It will be the first of its type in an Irish higher education institution. This facility will assist medical devices companies (start-ups and large multi nationals), independent research in surgical innovation and shared use by other academic institutions.
A number of companies in Ireland have the capability for Additive Manufacturing at present and one company here is, in fact, manufacturing 3D printers for such use. IDA Ireland is very much aware of the potential for this technology and that Agency has hosted itineraries for companies looking at the potential for manufacturing components, through this new process.
New developments in Additive Manufacturing will be carefully monitored and any opportunities emerging will be actively pursued, where appropriate, to ensure that we can seize the prospects presented by these newer technologies.