The Economic Impact of Industry 4.0 Technologies
In today’s world, where globalisation has blurred geographic boundaries, the reasons to strengthen the local manufacturing sector are becoming more and more urgent. One of the ways to do this is by utilising the array of Industry 4.0 digital technologies.
Among these technologies, HP’s Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printing stands out as a game changer that can drive economic growth and job creation in the country’s manufacturing sector. The concept of “Made in New Zealand” carries with it, connotations of quality and ethical production.
Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing technology has elevated 3D Printing from the early hobbyist home printers to a new category where 3D printing can now print highly accurate, complex, quality parts at industrial scale.
Now offered in New Zealand by BDL 3D, customers can now have excellent quality parts printed, with full post production capability, right here in NZ.
Enhancing Economic Resilience
Boosting Local Manufacturing
HP Multi Jet Fusion technology allows for the production of high-quality, strong, durable complex parts.
While set up costs of purchasing Multi Jet Fusion equipment are high, with the concept of Print Bureaus like BDL 3D, customers can have their parts printed with MJF equipment without having to invest heavily in hardware themselves.
Simply send through a compatible file and the print job gets printed and dispatched within days.
MJF per-part costings are, at the least, competitive with traditional manufacturing processes but don’t carry the initial set up costs of the tooling required with conventional technology.
With MJF you can also print with a variety of high quality Polymers like PA12 Nylon, PA11, TPU and others.
By utilising a New Zealand based MJF 3D printing bureau to produce goods locally, we reduce reliance on overseas supply chains. Local production not only strengthens the economy but also increases the resilience of New Zealand’s manufacturing sector, making it better equipped to handle global disruptions.
Reducing Production Costs
By focusing on the benefits of NZ made goods and intentionally choosing local, customers will help increase locally manufactured volumes, bringing about efficiencies and cost savings in a number of ways.
Utilising MJF can cut down on material waste and energy consumption compared to traditional methods, shipping and storage costs are reduced along with the environmental impact of shipping and air freight.
By shifting our focus from simply looking at the singular dollar value of a part or design to considering the ‘holistic’ cost of the whole production process we can make a compelling case for the many advantages of buying NZ made.
As local volume production increases, costs can decrease, businesses can pass these savings on to consumers, therefore encouraging more people to support New Zealand-made products.
Job Creation and Skills Development
New Opportunities in Advanced Manufacturing
The integration of HP Multi Jet Fusion into the manufacturing landscape opens up a plethora of new job opportunities that did not previously exist.
While there will no doubt always be a place for traditional methods for high volume production or parts, MJF creates jobs in Design, Mechanical Engineering, Additive Manufacturing Management to name a few.
Technical and Quality Assurance roles also become vital as more designers adopt innovative digital technologies. These roles often require advanced skill sets, prompting an increasing demand for training and education programs focused on Industry 4.0 technologies.
Upskilling the Workforce
As local companies embrace MJF 3D printing, there is a significant opportunity to upskill the existing workforce.
Training programs and partnerships between educational institutions and industries will be crucial for equipping workers with the necessary skills to operate and manage cutting-edge technologies of the future.
This not only contributes to job retention but also fosters a highly skilled workforce, essential for a progressive economy.
Promoting Innovation and Sustainability
Encouraging Local Innovation
The introduction of HP Multi Jet Fusion technology into New Zealand by BDL 3D encourages and enables an innovative culture to develop within New Zealand’s manufacturing sector.
We can design for Additive Manufacturing rather than design for traditional manufacturing methods – opening up whole new flexibilities in the design process.
MJF allows for rapid prototyping and iteration, enabling businesses to bring new ideas to market faster.
As companies experiment with 3D printing with MJF, they will discover untapped markets and the potential for unique, custom-made products that resonate with local and international consumers alike.
3D printing has well and truly moved on from the low quality results from earlier technology.
Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
Sustainability is at the forefront of consumer preferences today. MJF technology utilizes a powder-based system, resulting in less waste compared to traditional manufacturing methods, which often involve cutting away excess material.
BDL 3D currently offer 3D printing with High Reusability PA12 Nylon – by Evonik. Each build uses 80% material reclaimed from previous builds and only 20% fresh material. Additionally, parts at end of life can be crushed up and recycled for other uses. 3D printing locally with MJF requires fewer resources for transportation and logistics.
By supporting “New Zealand Made” products that leverage MJF technology, consumers contribute to environmentally friendly practices, aligning their purchasing habits with their values.
Living Wage
BDL 3D complies with NZ Employment laws and all employees are paid in excess of the Living Wage, which at time of writing was NZD27.80 per hour.
When we choose to 3D Print with Multi Jet Fusion in New Zealand with a business like BDL 3D, we can be sure our products are being manufactured with certified HP original materials and that the team are paid properly and are working in good conditions.
Strengthening the Brand of New Zealand
Global Reputation for Quality
New Zealand has already built a reputation for producing high-quality, ethically manufactured goods.
By adopting advanced technologies like HP Multi Jet Fusion, the country can enhance this reputation, making New Zealand-made products even more attractive to consumers both domestically and overseas.
The “New Zealand Made” label, combined with cutting-edge technology, can signify quality, innovation, and sustainability.
Driving Export Opportunities
With the enhancement of local production capabilities through MJF, New Zealand manufacturers can cater to niche, high-value markets worldwide.
Exporting products produced using advanced technologies can significantly contribute to the national economy and provide a boost to local businesses, creating further job opportunities in the process.
Conclusion
Being “New Zealand Made” is about more than just a label; it’s a declaration of quality, sustainability, and innovation, particularly in light of transformative technologies like HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing.
By embracing local production and Industry 4.0 technologies, New Zealand can bolster its economy, create skilled jobs, promote sustainability, and solidify its standing in the global marketplace.
Supporting local manufacturing is essential—not just for the future of New Zealand’s economy but for the wellbeing and prosperity of its people.
Ready to Harness the Power of New Zealand-Made 3D Printing?
At BDL 3D, we’re revolutionising the local manufacturing industry with HP Multi Jet Fusion technology. Whether you’re a business looking to innovate or reduce costs with sustainable practices, we can help.
Let’s talk about how we can bring your ideas to life with cutting-edge 3D printing solutions.
Get in touch today to explore how our services can benefit your business.