July 3, 2019 | Manufacturing Automation – “The federal government is investing nearly half a million dollars in an Edmonton-based machine and welding shop to purchase a large-scale 3D printer.
Apollo-Clad Laser Cladding, a division of Apollo Machine and Welding Ltd., is receiving $447,480 to purchase, modify and install equipment for large-scale 3D printing to increase productivity and capacity. The format differs from conventional 3D printing because large features can be printed onto existing parts.
The funding is provided under the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation Steel and Aluminum Initiative, announced in March 2019 and delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies. Investments under REGI provide support to Canadian small- and medium-sized businesses in the steel, aluminum and manufacturing sectors for projects that enhance productivity, increase competitiveness through new technologies and create new jobs.
“As an advanced manufacturing organization in Alberta, Apollo Machine and Welding Ltd. is excited to combine years of laser manufacturing know-how with university and industrial research to make large-scale 3D printing a reality in Alberta,” says Dr. Douglas J. Hamre P.Eng., research and development manager at Apollo Machine & Welding. “The capabilities this system will bring to Apollo, will allow us to be competitive internationally in a number of industries.”