From Idea to Printing of Metal Products

During the last years 3D-printing, also called additive manufacturing (AM) became strongly implemented in certain regions and by certain companies while others are still very reluctant, including the Kolarctic area. 3D-printing is far more than just substituting one manufacturing technique by another. AM offers e.g. the possibility of reducing manufacturing steps, new opportunities for design and function of products, very efficient production in terms of low costs and low environmental impact. Although additive manufacturing offers high potential, it is difficult for SME’s to exploit, because AM requires knowledge and skills for more complex, sophisticated changes, which are difficult to acquire.

I2P project faces this challenge and offers a substantial initiative to enhance the skills and resources in 3D-printing of metal products. The project will enhance awareness on opportunities and limitations of this promising technology among industrial enterprises. Consequently, I2P will be a starting point for development of new business ideas applicable for small and medium-sized enterprises. It will also make input into growth of business, employment rate and attractiveness of the Kolarctic region.

The projects budget is 1 011 500€ and it is funded by the Regional Council of Lapland together with the Kolarctic Cross-Border Cooperation program.

The Ministry of Education and Culture recommends that Finnish higher education institutions refrain from all cooperation with Russian partner organisations in higher education and science.  According to the policies, no new projects will be prepared or launched and existing cooperation with Russian organisations has been suspended for the time being. Read more.