NTU Singapore and ExtraBold R&D collaborate to develop ultra-large scale and high speed FGF technology

                    Left to right: Prof Zhou Kun, Dr Henry Herng, Prof Paulo Bartolo, Mr. Wouter A. van Hest, Mr Yasuhiko Sawada, Mr. Yuji Hara

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) and ExtraBold R&D Pte Ltd signed an agreement on 9 May 2023, to foster collaborative research in the development of ultra-large scale and high speed fused granulate fabrication (FGF) technology for next generation manufacturing.

Fused Granulate Fabrication (FGF) is emerging as a new technological trend for the fabrication of plastics and composite parts. FGF is an extrusion-based 3D printing technique based on plastic-based pellets. Contrary to many conventional filament-based 3D printing approaches, this is a more cost-effective approach as the polymer material no longer needs to be converted into spools of filaments before printing. Moreover, FGF allows exploration of a new material because filaments may buckle and fail due to the lack of printability. Thus, it is an interest from both industry and academia to study ultra-large scale and high speed FGF technology for next generation manufacturing of plastic and composite parts.

The Research Collaboration Agreement was signed by Prof Paulo Bartolo (Executive Director, Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, SC3DP) and Mr. Yuji Hara (CEO of ExtraBold), in the presence of Prof Zhou Kun (NTU, SC3DP) and Mr. Wouter A. van Hest (ExtraBold).

The Singapore Centre for 3D Printing (SC3DP) offers a full range of additive manufacturing services, from design and infrastructure to production and validation. With advanced technologies such as topology optimization, generative design, and bioinspired design, SC3DP creates optimized products using a variety of novel materials and printing processes, including hybrid printing, post-processing, and emerging technologies. Sustainability is a top priority for SC3DP, which offers material development and control services that combine artificial intelligence, big data, and other digital tools for process optimization, as well as non-destructive testing for AM parts. Backed by a team of experts and a state-of-the-art facility equipped with the latest equipment and technologies, SC3DP is committed to leading the way in sustainable additive manufacturing research and development.

Founded in 2017, Tokyo-based ExtraBold Inc. is a world leader in large format pellet 3D printers and print systems. Their vision is the widespread adoption of industrial-grade 3D printers in the manufacturing industry, capable of rapid modelling and minimising resin waste loss. ExtraBold R&D is the Singapore subsidiary of ExtraBold Inc.