Driving Innovation: Forward AM and Xuberance Unveil Advanced Additive Manufacturing Technical Center in Shanghai

The landscape of manufacturing in the Asia-Pacific region is undergoing a significant transformation, with additive manufacturing (AM) at its forefront. This burgeoning interest has led to a landmark development: Forward AM, a brand of BASF 3D Printing Solutions, has partnered with the esteemed Chinese 3D printing design and service company, Xuberance, to establish a new Additive Manufacturing Technical Center (AMTC) in Shanghai, China. This state-of-the-art facility is strategically designed to serve as a pivotal hub of expertise, offering cutting-edge solutions and a comprehensive range of materials tailored for the rapidly expanding AM market across China and the wider Asia-Pacific region. This initiative reflects the immense growth observed in the area over recent years, as China firmly entrenches itself as one of the largest and most dynamic additive manufacturing markets globally, attracting significant international investment and collaboration.

China’s Rapid Ascent in the Additive Manufacturing Market

While the additive manufacturing market in China may not yet possess the same level of long-term development as some Western counterparts, such as the United States, its growth trajectory in recent years has been nothing short of explosive. Experts and industry analysts have long identified China as a promising hotbed for 3D printing innovation, with predictions suggesting it would lead global growth in the coming years. These forecasts are proving accurate. Official Chinese government data from November 2020 revealed that the nation’s major AM manufacturers collectively reported an impressive operating revenue of approximately $1.14 billion USD (7.5 billion yuan). This figure represented a substantial 10.3% increase over the previous year, an even more remarkable achievement considering the challenging global economic climate brought about by the pandemic. Further underscoring this rapid expansion, another significant report highlighted a striking 68% worldwide increase in the shipment of desktop 3D printers originating from China during the same period. This surge in production and revenue demonstrates not just recovery, but robust, accelerated expansion within the Chinese AM sector, driven by both domestic demand and export capabilities.

The official opening of the AMTC in Shanghai, marking a new era for additive manufacturing in the region (image credits: Forward AM)

The additive manufacturing (AM) market in China is also benefiting from unique factors. The 3D Printing Sentiment Index, published by Ultimaker earlier this year, suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a major catalyst for AM adoption within the country. Widespread disruptions to global supply chains prompted a renewed focus on resilient, localized manufacturing solutions, for which 3D printing is exceptionally well-suited. This report also indicated a high level of awareness regarding 3D printing technologies in China, with 84% of respondents at least familiar with AM. Furthermore, China was ranked fifth globally in terms of actual 3D printing utilization, trailing only the US, UK, Germany, and France. This places China firmly among the top 10 nations successfully integrating and leveraging AM technologies on an industrial scale. Considering the sheer number of indigenous AM manufacturers already present in the country, such as industrial giants IEMAI and consumer-focused brands like Creality, it becomes eminently clear why international manufacturers and solution providers are increasingly eager to establish a strong presence and expand their operations within this dynamic nation. The market is not just growing; it’s maturing with significant industrial applications across diverse sectors including automotive, aerospace, medical, and consumer electronics, further fueling the need for advanced technical support and material expertise.

The Strategic Vision Behind the New Chinese Additive Manufacturing Technical Center

The establishment of this latest Additive Manufacturing Technical Center (AMTC) by Forward AM and Xuberance is far more than just another market entry; it’s a powerful affirmation of the region’s importance and the sustained, robust growth of 3D printing within China. This strategic initiative embodies a deliberate fusion of distinct organizational strengths, aimed at delivering unparalleled, fully integrated 3D printing solutions to customers. Forward AM, leveraging its extensive global expertise as part of BASF, contributes a vast portfolio of high-performance 3D printing materials, coupled with deep engineering know-how. This includes the significant strategic investment made by BASF Venture Capital in Xuberance, underscoring a long-term commitment. On the other hand, Xuberance brings its invaluable local market insight, profound knowledge in 3D printing services, and innovative design solutions, cultivated through years of experience serving the Chinese market. This synergy creates a powerful value proposition, where customers can access end-to-end support, from material selection and application development to design optimization and final part production, all under one roof.

The new AMTC is equipped with a comprehensive suite of major 3D printing technologies, designed to cater to a diverse array of industrial applications and customer requirements. Visitors and clients will have access to advanced capabilities including selective laser sintering (SLS), renowned for producing strong, functional parts with complex geometries; various photopolymer 3D printing processes, such as SLA (Stereolithography) and DLP (Digital Light Processing), ideal for high-resolution prototypes and intricate models; and fused filament fabrication (FFF), a versatile and cost-effective method widely used for prototyping and functional parts. This diverse technological offering ensures that the center can address a wide spectrum of manufacturing needs, from rapid prototyping to mass customization and the production of end-use parts across multiple industries. The center’s overarching mission is to extend its reach and impact throughout the entire Asia-Pacific region, providing localized support and technical expertise to a broad customer base. Moreover, the significant investment from BASF not only bolsters the AMTC’s operational capabilities but also serves as a critical accelerator for Xuberance’s own growth and expansion within the rapidly evolving additive manufacturing ecosystem.

Forward AM and Xuberance leadership at the grand opening of the AMTC in Shanghai, China (image credits: machi via flickr)

A Catalyst for Innovation and Regional Growth

Concluding the official announcement, François Minec, the Managing Director of BASF 3D Printing Solutions, articulated the profound significance of this new venture. He stated: “The establishment of the new AMTC in Shanghai marks an important step for us, as we are now able to offer customers in Asia-Pacific a perfectly integrated service – from consultancy, through our high-performance materials, to direct component printing and great design services for successful 3D printing. We are confident the AMTC will become a key hub for Additive Manufacturing in this region, strengthening our capability to co-innovate with our customers.” Minec’s statement underscores a strategic vision that extends beyond mere service provision, emphasizing collaborative innovation and a holistic approach to additive manufacturing. The center is poised to become a nexus for advanced manufacturing, facilitating knowledge transfer, fostering technological adoption, and driving forward the capabilities of businesses utilizing 3D printing. Located within the bustling Shanghai Lingang Songjiang Science Park, the AMTC benefits from a vibrant ecosystem of technological innovation and industrial development, ensuring easy access for partners and clients. Further details and insights into this transformative collaboration can be found in the official press release HERE. This move is expected to significantly accelerate the industrialization of additive manufacturing in China, providing local businesses with critical access to global expertise and advanced material solutions, while also empowering multinational corporations to better serve their regional clientele.

What are your thoughts on the inauguration of the new Additive Manufacturing Technical Center in Shanghai, China? Do you believe this will further solidify China’s position as a global leader in 3D printing? Share your insights and opinions in a comment below or connect with us on our Facebook and Twitter pages! Don’t miss out on the latest advancements and news in the world of 3D printing; sign up for our free weekly newsletter to receive all the essential updates directly in your inbox!

*Thumbnail Image Credits: BASF Forward AM