US computer giant Hewlett-Packard (HP) has opened a 3D printing center in the city of Foshan in China’s southeastern Guangdong Province.
HP says the centre is "part of an industry-wide digital transformation that many call the fourth industrial revolution".
Operated by Guangdong Lanwan Intelligence Technology, the centre will use HP’s "mult-jet fusion" 3D printing systems, which makes components for auto, consumer goods and motorcycle customers in China.
HP says its fusion technology is capable of printing a chain link in 30 minutes that can lift 4.5 tonnes.
The technology is marketed towards small and medium-sized product development teams, design firms, and universities.
HP, Guangdong Lanwan Intelligence Technology and the Institute of Foshan, Nanhai Guangdong Technology University signed a memorandum of understanding to promote the adoption of 3D printing technology.
Luo Jun, Guangdong Lanwan Intelligence Technology president, said: "The demand for 3D-printed production-grade parts will grow exponentially over the next few years as we shift from analogue to digital manufacturing.
"By deploying HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology in our new digital manufacturing centre in China, we can better – and more quickly – deliver cost-effective and production-grade parts to our customers."
Siemens recently announced plans for a 3D printer factory in the UK.
Image courtesy of HP
