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On Thursday, the College of Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) Mayagüez Campus (RUM) officially opened a state-of-the-art 3D printing laboratory tailored for metals, featuring the most cutting-edge technology within the UPR system for academic, research, and industrial applications.
“This is a groundbreaking piece of equipment; while not exclusive to Puerto Rico, it stands apart within the UPR system for academic, research, and industrial applications,” stated Dr. Cristina Pomales García, interim dean of engineering, in an official statement. “This equipment was made possible through a generous contribution from the Department of Defense, initiated by a grant proposal authored by Dr. Oscar Marcelo Suárez and a team of visionaries. This signifies an advancement in education and the cultivation of human talent employing advanced technology.”
Pomales García emphasized that the technology involves the layering of metal powders which are then fused using a high-powered laser to form intricate three-dimensional structures. Moreover, it is a complex undertaking that necessitates stringent safety protocols. The laboratory, situated within the Department of Industrial Engineering, is outfitted with specialized devices and controls for the operation of the equipment.
Drs. Ricky Valentín and Pedro Quintero from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, along with faculty from the Departments of Industrial Engineering and Materials Science & Engineering, were also integral to the project. Subsequently, the Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust (FCTIPR by its Spanish acronym) secured a second grant that facilitated the creation of the facility, allowing faculty and graduate students to engage in research as well as projects relevant to industry and federal entities.
“We were informed that the institution had procured this funding and grant from the Department of Defense to establish this capability in Puerto Rico,” noted engineer Lucy Crespo, CEO of FCTIPR and a RUM alumna. “They required assistance with the construction of the physical infrastructure. For the Trust, it is a remarkable experience to collaborate with all involved in this initiative. We will possess the capability for 3D printing with metals. We already engage in 3D printing with various filaments, utilizing polymers and other substances. We are in the early stages of printing with organic materials, which holds immense significance. This capability is applicable in sectors like aerospace, biomedicine, and biotechnology.”
As noted during the opening ceremony, this initiative will enable the institution to attract additional grants and technological resources, increase faculty hiring, and expand equipment acquisition.
