Light Coatings Ltd, a leading advanced manufacturing business based at Sci-Tech Daresbury, has unveiled a breakthrough in 3D printed polymer technology thanks to a project delivered as part of the Liverpool City Region Launchpad programme.
The firm specialises in manufacturing, research, and support services within the thin film and vacuum deposition industry. Over the last 12 months, the team at Light Coatings has developed a range of cutting-edge coating technologies. The innovations showcase the viability of Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) coatings on a diverse array of commercially viable 3D printed polymers.
The culmination of the project yields a diverse range of coatings and materials suitable for various 3D printed substrates. Supported by robust wear and tensile test data, these innovations emphasise durability, conductivity, and optical properties.
The work has also catalysed additional opportunities, as Light Coatings embarks on a further funded project to explore the application of the technology in space-related endeavours. Dr Steven Stanley and George Titley, directors at Light Coatings Ltd, are now eagerly awaiting the launch of the ground-breaking product to the market.
Titley said: “There have been many benefits throughout the twelve-month PVD PALM project, R&D, improved in-house testing capabilities, an increase in coating material choices on offer, an increase in staff to name but a few. The increase in knowledge and data captured regarding polymers and what can be offered has been a huge leap forward for Light Coatings and this was made possible due to the Innovate UK funding.”
Dr Stanley added: “The story does not end here now that our project is finished. Light Coatings will continue to develop and bring new and innovative coating solutions to the 3D Printing Community.”
