SUNY New Paltz 3D printing “superlab” to support student education and business community

Jul. 11, 2016 – The Hudson Valley Advanced Manufacturing Center (HVAMC) at The State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) has opened an additive manufacturing “superlab,” which has received Stratasys designation as a “SMART lab” (Stratasys MakerBot Additive Research & Teaching).

The lab, according to HVAMC, is one of the country’s most advanced 3D printing superlabs. Designed to provide advice on 3D printing processes, materials and design for student education and the Hudson Valley business community, the lab features a suite of Stratasys 3D printers, including an industrial-grade Objet260 Connex multi-material 3D printer, a Fortus 400mc production 3D printer, two Dimension units, and more than 40 MakerBot 3D printers. According to the centre, the lab will be open to all students and educators.

“Our designation as a SMART lab is huge step for the HVAMC,” said Dan Freedman, dean of the School of Science and Engineering and director of the HVAMC. “The combination of our unique focus at the interface of art, engineering and science, and the recognition and support by the world’s leading manufacturer of 3D printers, will move us to an unparalleled interdisciplinary educational experience, help us support regional businesses, and give our faculty the tools and expertise to do cutting-edge scholarship in art, engineering and design.”

“We’re continually impressed with the industry partnerships SUNY New Paltz is engaged in. The investment they have made in industrial-grade additive manufacturing equipment in the SMART Lab, combined with its expert staff, is allowing increased access for all,” said Gina Scala, director of global marketing, Stratasys Education. “It’s exciting to see economic development for local industry and academic development collide, creating fireworks of innovation and benefit for all.”

“In cooperation with the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation, a comprehensive resource for business in the area, the SMART Lab at SUNY New Paltz shows the promise to attract new business and economic growth to the Hudson Valley area. The Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation was instrumental in working with the College to plant the seeds of additive manufacturing and mechanical engineering programs currently available to all students, local businesses and community members,” said the centre in a statement.