Additive Manufacturing Lab Opens Doors

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Posted on December 6, 2023

Joy Washington

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The University of South Alabama celebrated the opening of its Additive Manufacturing Laboratory 鈥� 3D printing 鈥� with a ceremonial ribbon cutting on Friday, Dec. 1.

The newly renovated space and printers will benefit faculty and student researchers, as well as be open as a service site for manufacturers along the Gulf Coast region.

鈥淭his new laboratory makes available many resources that are not currently present,鈥� said Assistant Vice President for Research Communications Dr. Matthew Reichert. 鈥淔or example, we can use these printers to make tools and special fixtures, for doing labor and drilling. The University and local manufacturing companies will greatly benefit from this service."

The 3D printing was first developed in the early 1980s, but the technology has greatly improved over the past several years.

The renovated space, partly funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, is in the Science Laboratory Building. Funding also paid for 3D printers, which have the capability of printing metals and polymers.

  鈥淥pening the newly renovated lab is the result of hard work and dedication of many individuals across campus,鈥� Reichert said. 鈥淚 have a passion for this type of work. It鈥檚 great to see things grow, and most importantly, our students will receive first-rate training and support in this new lab space at South Alabama.鈥�

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