The Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) at Mohawk College is proud to be featured in a recent research story by the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). The article, titled “Giving industry an additive manufacturing edge,” explores how AMIC is transforming the landscape for Canadian businesses by putting the power of 3D printing to work for civilian, military, and dual-use applications.
Bridging the Gap from Prototype to Production
As a 1,200-person subsidiary of global defense contractor L3Harris Technologies, WESCAM is a prime example of how AMIC supports industry leaders. By collaborating with our team, WESCAM is able to move beyond simple prototyping and into the creation of production-grade, flight-ready metal parts.
Empowered by Additive Manufacturing Technology
One of the critical component of our ability to deliver high-quality results is the use of the TruPrint 2000, provided with funding through CFI. This advanced metal 3D printer is designed for heightened productivity, offering a unique combination of speed and precision.
“By switching from traditional manufacturing to additive, we’ve made the part four to five times more robust,” Simon Coulson, General Manager of AMIC, explains. “Over the life of the aircraft, it’s going to save significant cost.”
Supporting a Wide Array of Sectors
Since 2014, AMIC has undertaken more than 200 research projects with a diverse range of partners, including small-to-medium enterprises and global leaders like General Dynamics. Our work spans multiple high-stakes industries:
- Aerospace & Defense: Creating lightweight, high-strength components for surveillance and flight systems.
- Medical & Dental: Utilizing the TruPrint 2000’s square build plate to efficiently produce custom implants and prosthetics.
- Tooling & Repairs: Implementing “Preform” technology to print additive structures directly onto existing conventional parts, reducing costs and lead times.
Looking Ahead
By providing access to world-class equipment and expertise, AMIC is not just solving today’s manufacturing challenges; we are training the next generation of technicians and engineers to lead the industry forward.
Want to learn more?
Read the full feature on the Canada Foundation for Innovation website or discover more of AMICs projects to see how we can give your business a competitive edge.
