inside AM

Episode 2: Additive Manufacturing in the UK

Episode 2 of “Inside AM,” the podcast series by Theta Technologies is here! In this episode we explore the current state of additive manufacturing in the UK with Josh Dugdale, Head of Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK). Josh discusses the importance of collaboration within the industry, highlighting AMUK’s role in fostering a thriving ecosystem. He reflects on key insights from a recent members forum, emphasising the shift towards knowledge sharing and addressing industry challenges like scaling production and skills gaps. Josh also compares the UK’s additive manufacturing performance with Europe, stressing the need for standardised training and broader education to harness the technology’s full potential.

Unlocking Insights into Additive Manufacturing: A Conversation with Head of AMUK, Josh Dugdale

Welcome to the latest episode of “Inside AM,” the podcast brought to you by Non-destructive testing specialists Theta Technologies. In this latest episode, we had the opportunity to sit down with Josh Dugdale, the Head of Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK).

As the Head of AMUK, Josh oversees the UK’s trade association for companies operating within the additive manufacturing ecosystem. He emphasises the importance of collaborative efforts in the industry, ranging from representation to government to facilitating access to marketing promotion materials and standards or legislation. AMUK focuses on fostering a thriving additive manufacturing ecosystem, encompassing everything from materials and technology suppliers to training providers and R&D facilities.

Josh reflects on the recent members forum event hosted by AMUK in Luton, where industry stakeholders came together to share knowledge, best practices, and industry intelligence. The event served as a platform for networking and facilitated discussions on key topics shaping the additive manufacturing landscape.

Knowledge sharing: The key to growing AM in the UK

One significant shift Josh highlights is the growing emphasis on knowledge sharing within the additive manufacturing industry. Traditionally, the industry operated within a culture of secrecy, with companies guarding their intellectual property closely. However, in recent years, there has been a collective realisation of the need for collaboration and information sharing to drive innovation and advance the industry as a whole.

This podcast delves into a plethora of topics such as the challenges and opportunities facing additive manufacturing, particularly in terms of scaling up production and overcoming barriers to adoption. Josh underscores the importance of creating an environment conducive to innovation, where companies have access to financing, expertise, and collaborative opportunities to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies.

Reflecting on the recent members forum event, Josh highlights key themes such as the economy, skills and knowledge gaps, standards, and scaling up production. He acknowledges the positive momentum within the additive manufacturing industry, with companies finding niches and generating revenue, particularly in sectors like aerospace, automotive, and motorsport.

Addressing Knowledge Gaps and Scaling Additive Manufacturing

As the conversation with Josh Dugdale continues, the focus shifts to assessing the performance of additive manufacturing in the UK compared to the rest of Europe. While granular financial data may not be readily available, insights gleaned from conversations and confidence ratings provide valuable indicators of the industry’s standing. Interestingly, the challenges faced by companies in the UK mirror those encountered across Europe, highlighting the universal nature of issues such as skills shortages, standards, and project visibility.

 Josh highlights Spain as a frontrunner in the additive manufacturing space, attributing their success to the establishment of a robust industry association similar to AMUK. This proactive approach has fostered a thriving additive manufacturing community, driving innovation and attracting investment. With the UK poised to emulate this success, there is a growing recognition of the need for collaborative efforts to propel the additive manufacturing industry forward.

Ensuring proficiency in AM

One of the key challenges discussed is the skills gap within additive manufacturing. As a relatively nascent technology, there is a pressing need to bridge the knowledge divide and equip individuals with the requisite expertise to navigate the complexities of additive manufacturing processes. Josh identifies two main areas requiring specialised skills: worksite design and process engineering. With multiple additive manufacturing processes and machine types in play, there is a need for comprehensive training programs to ensure proficiency across the board.

Addressing the skills gap necessitates collaboration among stakeholders, including machine suppliers, educational institutions, and industry associations. Josh emphasizes the importance of establishing a standardised qualification pathway to guide individuals from entry-level positions to advanced roles within the additive manufacturing sector. Drawing inspiration from initiatives like the Sector Skills for Additive Manufacturing project in Europe, there is a concerted effort to develop accessible and flexible training programs tailored to industry needs.

Understanding the full potential of additive manufacturing

Josh also highlights the need for broader education and awareness initiatives to demystify additive manufacturing and dispel misconceptions surrounding its application. Many companies remain unaware of the full potential of additive manufacturing, leading to underutilisation of the technology. By providing accessible resources and training materials, organisations like AMUK aim to empower companies to harness the benefits of additive manufacturing effectively

Looking ahead, Josh remains optimistic about the future of additive manufacturing in the UK. While challenges persist, particularly in sectors like metals where adoption may lag behind, the overall trajectory is positive. Additive manufacturing is transitioning from rapid prototyping to industrial production, opening up new possibilities for innovation and growth across various sectors.