Metro Systems Corporation Plc is partnering with HP to introduce the global printer maker’s first 3D printer to Thailand.
3D printing technology has been developing steadily over the past decade, offering businesses around the world much faster and more cost effective printing. HP, one of the most well-known computer and printer producers in business today, has played its own part in the growth of the industry, designing its own Jet Fusion Printing solutions which are over 50% cheaper than rival 3D printers and feature a printing speed that is ten times faster.
Now the Bangkok Post reports that HP “is joining forces with Metro Systems Corporation Plc to introduce HP’s first 3D printer in Thailand and capitalise on the Industry’s 4.0 initiative.”
According to Alex Lalumiere, head of 3D printer client sales at HP, “3D printers will play an integral role in the fourth industrial revolution, transforming analogue to digital manufacturing with automation and robotic technology are combined,” with Lalumiere also saying that HP’s “3D printing roadmap features several new types of printing materials, including thermal plastic such as elastomer that enables more colourful and scalable prototype printing.”
While Mr. Lalumiere conceded in the article that 3D printing remains uneconomical when it comes to mass production, he emphasised its “suitability for highly customised prototypes and low-volume production.”
Now, with the global 3D printer market predicted to achieve US$18 billion by 2021, “Thailand is among the top countries in which HP’s 3D Jet Fusion Printing solutions are available”, with Metro being appointed HP’s first reseller in Thailand, as well as being HP’s first IT value-added reseller in the Asia-Pacific region and Japan, according to Thongchai Lumveerakul, president of the company’s digital printing group.
Mr Lalumiere explained, “Thailand is an attractive market for HP’s printing business, due to its large-scale manufacturing base, and Metro is one of HP’s largest local business partners”.
Demonstrating its commitment to 3D printing, Metro has invested 10 million baht in a demonstration centre that “lets customers experience how the technology can be applied to auto parts, healthcare, engineering and education.”
In addition, Metro offers 3D printing to clients who “require prototypes or personalised products in fields such as architecture and interior design.”