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The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) has entered into a collaborative agreement with an American multinational information technology company aimed at establishing the HKPC-HP 3D Printing Technology Centre in Hong Kong. This initiative is poised to revolutionise additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, by fostering research and development applications across various industries.
The envisioned Centre aspires to serve as a pioneering hub, leveraging cutting-edge 3D printing technologies to enhance industrial competitiveness, catalyse high-value strategic industrial chains, and expedite Hong Kong’s journey towards micro-factory and new industrialisation development.
Located within the HKPC Building, the Centre will boast the distinction of being the first in Asia equipped with both a research version of “Metal Jet” and “Multi Jet Fusion” industrial 3D printers. Drawing upon the expertise of both parties, the Centre aims to advance the frontier of 3D printing technology by focusing on raw material development, process refinement, and the integration of smart capabilities. Market projections indicate a substantial growth trajectory for the 3D printing industry, underscoring the vast market potential awaiting exploration.
One of the defining attributes of 3D printing lies in its eco-friendly nature, characterised by minimal waste generation and a negligible carbon footprint. This aligns seamlessly with global sustainability objectives, presenting an opportunity to foster long-term economic growth through the cultivation of sustainable industries.
Moreover, the versatility of advanced 3D printing holds promise for strategic sectors such as healthtech, electronics, and critical components. The Centre’s emphasis on customisation and precision positions it as a transformative force in meeting the demand for specialised parts, intricate structures, patient-specific implants, and other bespoke solutions.
In the ceremony commemorating this collaboration, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, highlighted the potential of 3D printing to catalyse the proliferation of micro-factories in Hong Kong. These micro-factories, characterised by their efficiency and minimal resource footprint, are ideally suited to Hong Kong’s land-constrained environment and high labour costs. The establishment of the 3D printing technology centre signifies a strategic leap towards advanced manufacturing and new industrialisation, positioning Hong Kong’s manufacturing industry for unprecedented growth and global recognition.
The Chairman of HKPC underscored the significance of this partnership with a global technology leader in reaffirming Hong Kong’s stature as an innovation powerhouse. He envisioned Hong Kong as a beacon of the future micro-factory city, pioneering innovation-driven sustainable development models that resonate across Asia and beyond. Leveraging Hong Kong’s vibrant ecosystem and the robust supply chains of the Greater Bay Area, the Centre is poised to serve as a catalyst for micro-factory development, offering valuable insights for economies worldwide.
Expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration, Global Head of the partnering tech firm’s Personalisation & 3D Printing division, emphasised the commitment to driving industrialisation through additive manufacturing. The initiative, he noted, reflects a shared vision for technological advancement and industry innovation, underpinned by a belief in Hong Kong’s burgeoning technology sector. Additionally, the involvement of Pro-Technic Machinery Ltd. underscores the commitment to local support and collaboration.
Scheduled to open in September 2024, the Centre will function as a nexus for academia, research institutions, and industries, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. Beyond application development, it will offer consultancy and training services, driving advancements in the 3D printing industry and other sectors leveraging this transformative technology. As Hong Kong embarks on its journey towards technological excellence, the Centre stands poised to lead the charge, shaping the future of manufacturing and industrialisation on a global scale.
