Croft Additive Manufacturing is the first company to join STFC CERN BIC based in Sci-Tech Daresbury. The company provides 3D metal printing to UK industry, using Metal Additive Layering Manufacturing (MALM) which has the ability to create a vast array of metal products for a variety of industries.

Croft Additive Manufacturing is able to create intricate objects with complex internal angles. As it is a single piece of metal without welds and joints, there is a greater strength in the product. Excess metal powder is reused so there is no waste in the manufacturing process making it extremely cost effective and environmentally friendly.

Mark Burns, Director of Croft says “With additive manufacturing there is undiscovered scope that engineers using conventional methods may not have realised, which is why 3D printing is such a disruptive technology. As an SME, having access to CERN’s capabilities to support our own ideas was something we could only dream of. Now the dream has been realised, we hope to help each other in projects to improve this field.”

During their recent visit to CERN, Croft met with engineers who can help them improve their measurement and testing, as well as software for the laser control settings on the 3D printing machine in Warrington. Croft hopes to use CERN’s expertise in metal alloys and materials science to improve their own processes at home.

Ian Tracey, STFC CERN BIC Manager says: “We are excited to have Croft Additive Manufacturing join us at the BIC. As Sci-Tech Daresbury is a vibrant campus community, there will be many collaborative and networking opportunities available for them to continue to grow their business.”