Strengthened competence and use of additive manufacturing in industry

Purpose

Additive manufacturing is an innovative production method that offers opportunities far beyond traditional techniques. To fully harness its potential, companies need well-structured processes, the right materials, solid expertise, and access to the necessary equipment. With seven main manufacturing groups – in turn divided into subgroups, depending on material and energy source – navigating the technology can often be a complex challenge. 

To support the industry in its sustainable transition and strengthen its competitiveness, the Application Center for Additive Manufacturing (AM Center) was founded in 2021. The center serves as a hub for collaboration between industry, academia, and research institute, bringing together both deep and broad expertise in the field. Together, we explore, develop, and implement a variety of technological solutions.

COMPASS III aims to promote this environment to ensure long-term skills development, benefiting both member companies and other organisations – public or private – that want to leverage additive manufacturing to boost their competitiveness. The project’s activities are structured around three key areas: building expertise, networking and knowledge sharing, and further developing AM Center for long-term operations.

Challenges and solutions

Expanding the use and industrialisation of additive manufacturing can help address some of society’s most pressing challenges. Yet, critical skill gaps remain in both the private and public sectors. The AM Center works to strengthen expertise and ease the transition to additive manufacturing, which is still new to many companies. The center also supports employment by acting as an educational provider within vocational higher education institutions (YH) and offering student internships, providing valuable hands-on experience for future careers.

Emissions and climate change

Climate impact can be reduced through the opportunities offered by additive manufacturing – through lower material usage, reduced CO₂ emissions, and greater design freedom.

Global competition

Sweden’s industry is deeply integrated into the global economy, while international competition continues to grow. Therefore, it is important to develop the region’s and Sweden’s infrastructure and capabilities. The AM Center enhances the industry’s knowledge and skills in digitalisation, automation, and AI for additive manufacturing.

Uncertain geopolitical landscape

International crises heighten the vulnerability of both businesses and society, underscoring the need for effective crisis preparedness. Additive manufacturing can strengthen regional and national resilience by enabling the production of unavailable spare parts, repairing worn components, and extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure and industrial facilities. The AM Center provides an integrated, production-oriented test and demonstration infrastructure, as well as expert competence, for the region and Swedish industry.

Effects

The project is expected to have numerous effects, including:

• Strengthened supply preparedness and reduced vulnerability.
• Strengthened collaboration between industry, academia, and research institute.
• Increased international attractiveness.
• Circular transition within industry.
• Deepened expertise base within the region.
• Improved innovation and competitive strength.

The total project budget is 20 MSEK. The project is funded by Region Västra Götaland (VGR).