HKPC and HP Launch Joint Technology Centre in Hong Kong on Advanced 3D Printing
09 May 2024: Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and HP signed a collaboration agreement to establish HKPC-HP 3D Printing Technology Centre (Centre) in Hong Kong for application research development on additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing. The Centre aims to become a pilot transformation base, applying advanced 3D printing technologies to empower various industries, sharpen their competitive edge, and foster the development of high-value strategic industrial chains. It will also accelerate Hong Kong’s pioneering effort in micro-factory and new industrialisation development, offering important references and inspiration worldwide in pursuit of innovative and sustainable development.
The Centre will be located in HKPC Building, being the first in Asia to be equipped with both HP’s research version of “Metal Jet” and “Multi Jet Fusion” industrial 3D printers. HP will bring advanced equipment and talent to support the operations of the Centre, and HKPC will contribute expertise in raw material development, process development, and smartification. Market research data estimate that value of 3D printing industry will reach US$186.4 billion by 2033, a significant increase from US$27.7 billion in 2023, indicating immense market potential.
Clean, digitally powered 3D printing generates minimal waste and a minimal carbon footprint. This aligns with global goals of achieving green and sustainable development, while also promoting long-term economic growth through sustainable industries. At the same time, advanced 3D printing provides significant opportunities in strategic industries, such as healthtech, critical components, electronics, and more. In the future, the Centre, with its focus on customisation and precision, can be a game-changer in meeting the demand for hard-to-source parts, complex structures, patient-specific implants, and other tools. This will enable enterprises, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to leverage advanced 3D printing technology and produce high-value, customised goods that can respond to market-specific demands in real-time, offering new levels of flexibility and efficiency.
Professor Dong SUN, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, said, “3D printing enables the development of more micro-factories in Hong Kong. Compared to the traditional one, micro-factories require less land and materials, generate higher efficiency but less waste. This best suits Hong Kong’s condition, where land resources are limited and labour costs are relatively high. The establishment of this 3D printing technology centre is undoubtedly a good answer to show how we make use of state-of-the-art technology to promote advanced manufacturing and new industrialisation in Hong Kong. I am confident that Hong Kong’s manufacturing industry will reach new heights, and ‘Made in Hong Kong’ will continue to be a reputable and brilliant international brand.”
Ramon PASTOR, Global Head of 3D Metals at HP Personalisation & 3D Printing, said, “It’s truly exciting to witness the launch of this collaborative effort between HKPC and HP, which aligns perfectly with our vision of leveraging Additive Manufacturing to drive industrialisation. This initiative not only showcases our dedication to technological advancement but also our shared vision for propelling industry innovation forward. HP believes in the immense potential of Hong Kong’s technology sector. We are also glad to bring in Pro-Technic Machinery Ltd. (Pro-Technic) to provide local support for our collaboration with HKPC.”
www.hkpc.org/en / www.hp.com
