The chemical and consumer goods giant Henkel is planning construction of a multi-million dollar industrial 3D printing facility in Dublin.

As 3D printing continues its transformation from a prototyping tool to an industrial-level game changer, large manufacturers and corporations have decided to adopt the technology onto the production floor. This is especially true for chemical companies and material producers, most of whom have the financial backing and experience to get ahead of the 3D printing materials market.

Last year, the German high-performance materials producer Henkel entered the additive manufacturing arena, announcing that the company would start developing filaments and powders for 3D printing. It seems like the new segment has created success for the chemical giant, as they now plan to construct an industrial 3D printing operation in Dublin, Ireland.

The new multi-million dollar venture will be located at Henkel’s existing facility in Tallaght. The primary focus for the company will be to develop new advanced materials for industrial needs, such as medical devices and aerospace components.

Henkel Looks to Accelerate the Adoption of Industrial 3D Printing

Henkel’s new 3D printing operation will create 40 new jobs for highly-skilled engineers and scientists. The company plans to use their expertise in adhesives to help produce new chemistries and technologies. The project will be supported by IDA Ireland, an agency created to attract foreign investment into the country.

In particular, the Henkel team will look into advancing light cure adhesive technology for 3D printable resins, as well as materials commonly used in post processing. The decision to open the facility in Dublin is driven by the increasing number of localized medical technology firms using 3D printing. For IDA Ireland, they believe that the new operation will help put the country at “the forefront of a new and exciting chapter in manufacturing”.

Although they haven’t disclosed the value of the investment, Dr. Matthew Holloway, the director of the Henkel technology centre, claims that it will be worth “many millions of euros over an initial four-year period.”

“As the world’s largest adhesive company, Henkel is uniquely positioned to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing/industrial 3D printing. Many of the materials and equipment technology are complementary to our existing adhesive business and we already have strong relationships with many of the early adopters through this ,” said Dr. Holloway.

Thus far, Henkel has already made industry friends in high places, including a partnership with HP and other pioneering companies. By expanding their reach throughout Ireland, the chemical giant is creating more opportunities for innovation as 3D printing technology continues to find an increasing presence in the industrial world.

Source: Irish Times