Norco has taken a significant step in advancing its technological capabilities by investing in the latest additive manufacturing and 3D printing technology. This move not only enhances Norco’s existing production capabilities but also opens new market opportunities, positioning the company as a leader in delivering innovative manufacturing solutions to a diverse range of industries.
Plant and Equipment List
To support this expansion, we are enhancing our dedicated CNC facility with advanced equipment specifically designed for large format additive manufacturing. Our upgraded plant and equipment now include:
- 6-Axis 3D Printer: Featuring a robot arm equipped with an advanced S25 extruder, ensuring unparalleled versatility and precision in large format additive manufacturing.
- Subtractive 5-Axis Machining: Complementing our additive processes, this technology allows us to refine and finish printed parts to the highest standards, creating smooth surfaces and integrating fixings or branding as required.
- Advanced Software Solutions: Utilising leading tools like Ai-Build’s AiSync and Adaxis AdaOne to streamline design workflows, optimise production processes, and unlock creative potential.
Capabilities Overview
Norco’s investment in this new technology significantly expands our capabilities in additive manufacturing and 3D printing, allowing us to offer innovative solutions that meet diverse industry needs: - Rapid Prototyping: Quickly iterate and test designs with reduced lead times, moving from concept to production in days or weeks.
- Material Versatility: Ability to work with a wide range of thermoplastic and bio-based materials, tailored to specific requirements like heat resistance, durability, or unique surface finishes.
- Customisation and Complexity: Create intricate geometries and custom parts that traditional methods struggle to achieve, enabling bespoke solutions for specific applications.
- Sustainability: Minimise waste and reduce the environmental impact through circularity-focused practices and the use of recyclable materials in manufacturing processes.
Team Knowledge and Experience
As part of this expansion, 12 new team members will be joining Norco, all of whom have extensive experience in 3D printing and related fields. This new talent will strengthen our capabilities in key areas, ensuring that we continue to deliver innovative solutions and maintain the highest standards of precision and durability. Our team’s combined expertise in both additive and subtractive manufacturing processes allows us to seamlessly transition from design to production, optimising outcomes for our clients and driving innovation across the industry.
“This investment marks a significant milestone for Norco as we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in manufacturing,” said Mark Northey, Managing Director at Norco. “By expanding our capabilities with the latest technology in additive manufacturing, we are not only enhancing our production processes but also creating new opportunities to serve a wider range of industries with innovative and customised solutions.”
Dedicated Facility
Our dedicated CNC facility, enhanced with the latest equipment for large format additive manufacturing, is now the hub for our advanced 3D printing operations. This specialised space enables us to cater to a variety of applications, including:
Architectural Design and Furniture: Facilitating the fabrication of intricate architectural components and custom-designed furniture with sustainable materials, allowing designers to explore innovative and ergonomic solutions.
Future Outlook
Norco’s investment in additive manufacturing and 3D printing is a key step in our strategy to expand into new markets and redefine what’s possible within our manufacturing capabilities. By integrating advanced robotic technology with versatile materials and adding new equipment to our dedicated CNC facility, we are enhancing our ability to meet the evolving needs of our clients across various industries. Our goal is to help businesses unlock their creative potential, reduce costs, and achieve faster turnaround times with high-quality results.
Patterns and Moulds: Enhancing the efficiency of pattern and mould production by enabling rapid prototyping and reducing lead times and waste.
Jigs and Fixtures- Design and manufacture of bespoke assembly fixtures and trim/drill jigs to provide accurate and repeatable component assembly.
End-use Products: Producing low to mid-volume series components with exceptional strength and precision for sectors such as marine, aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and defence.
Life-size Prototypes: Bringing creative concepts to life with full-scale prototypes, providing tangible models for detailed testing and product validation.