The University of Exeter has taken delivery of the first UK-based high temperature polymer additive manufacturing machine (EOS P800).

Access to this equipment will give UK companies new opportunities to research and develop polyarlyetherketone thermoplastics, e.g. PEEK, made by additive layer manufacturing.

PEEK is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic that performs well in aggressive and high demanding applications. It exceptionally robust and can replace metal components.

The development is expected to place Exeter’s Centre for Additive Layer Manufacturing (CALM) at the forefront of 3D printing.

CALM is a £2.6m facility that will officially launch later this year, and is open to businesses, entrepreneurs and researchers.