A MAJOR new partnership involving Baildon-based aerospace firm Produmax has been announced.

The firm has teamed up with the Digital Manufacturing Centre (DMC) in Silverstone, Northamptonshire, to drive the automated and digital future of additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing.

The announcement is a critical part of the build-up toward the DMC’s commercial launch in March next year.

Kieron Salter, Chief Executive Officer at the DMC, said: “The partnership between the Digital Manufacturing Centre and Produmax signifies the coming together of two experienced teams and industry players, both investing in disruptive technology and the future of British manufacturing.

"The facility itself will be unique and a pioneer for many connected engineering and production technologies, but it is our key partnerships with highly regarded companies like Produmax that will help to fulfil the DMC’s true potential."

Jeremy Ridyard, Managing Director at Produmax, added: “Partnering with the DMC was an easy decision for us to make.

"We share a vision and values, from encouraging young people into STEM fields to promoting advanced manufacturing. We see connected, additive manufacturing as a cornerstone of precision engineering’s future and the DMC is set to be a UK leader.

“For our customers, the partnership brings a wealth of additional expertise and innovative capabilities that will ensure we continue to exceed their expectations.

"Industry 4.0 and the almost limitless potential of additive manufacturing have come together in the DMC, creating a facility that will pioneer the future of British industry."