Sep 14, 2017 | By David
Just over a year ago, we reported on some exciting 3D printing developments in Canada, as materials supplier Advanced Powders and Coatings (AP&C) announced that it was investing in a new factory, to be built in the Greater Montreal area. The Quebecois company, which is owned by 3D printing giant Arcam AB, has now officially opened this second factory in Saint-Eustache. It is expected to create over 100 new jobs, and at least half of these positions should be filled by the end of the year.
AP&C’s impressive portfolio of 3D printing materials, mostly titanium powders, are popular in a wide range of different industries. The aerospace and orthopaedics sectors make particular use of them, and 3D printing technology continues to be on the rise in these fields. It was this growth that led to the company’s acquisition by Arcam AB, back in 2014. The Swiss firm saw the potential of AP&C’s materials to enable a broader variety of geometries to be 3D printed, some so complex as to be previously impossible. This was achievable at the same time as minimizing waste.
Accelerating demand for AP&C’s products led to the eventual opening of this second factory. Saint-Eustache was chosen as the location due to its proximity to the company’s first factory and centre of expertise, in Boisbriand.
A total of CA$31 million was invested in the new factory, a major proportion of which was provided by the provincial government, as part of its deliberate efforts to encourage next-generation industrial developments in the area. 3D printing technology is at the forefront of the so-called Industry 4.0, which also includes artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.
A CA$3 million medical 3D printing center was recently established in Quebec City, furthering the technological independence of America’s French-speaking neighbours to the north. The Quebecois and Canadians in general have been lagging behind a little in these cutting-edge technological developments, with many crucial materials and equipment being sourced from the States. The Quebecois authority loaned CA$10 million to AP&C for its new manufacturing facility, along with a grant of $1.5 million, and this should go some way to establishing the reputation of the country as a 3D printing innovator.
Currently, the factory is capable of producing 750 tonnes of material annually, with an expected increase to 1250 tonnes expected in the near future. 106 people should eventually be employed at the factory, which will bring AP&C’s total workforce in the Quebec region up from 175 to 200 employees.
According to Christine St-Pierre, Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie and Minister responsible for the Laurentides region, "The construction of this new plant and the creation of more than 100 jobs demonstrates that AP & C is at the heart of the economic activity and vitality of the region. In addition, the implementation of this project is in line with government priorities to support entrepreneurship, build on innovative manufacturing and boost exports. "
"The metal powder market is growing very rapidly’’, said Dominique Anglade, Minister of Economy, Science and Innovation and Minister for Digital Strategy. ‘’As a result, the Saint-Eustache plant will enable AP&C to respond to an increase in demand from its customers, while at the same time positioning itself advantageously on world markets to be even more competitive. This type of project is beneficial not only for the Laurentides region, but also for the entire Quebec economy! "
Posted in 3D Printer Company
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