Burnley company utilising 3D printing to produce face mask parts for NHS

FDM Solutions, based at the Lancashire Digital Technology Park in Bancroft Road, is busy making face mask adjustors for local hospital staff.

Using HP’s Jet Fusion printers, the company is part of the UK's network of 3D printing service bureaus which has ramped up production in recent weeks to help supply healthcare professionals with much needed personal protective equipment (PPE).

Formed in 2012 FDM Digital Solutions has been at the forefront of 3D printing, the latest revolution in manufacturing, which has grown to be one the largest additive manufacturers in the UK.

HP’s UK AND Ireland managing director George Brasher said: “HP and our digital manufacturing partners are working non-stop to provide as much support as possible to those leading the UK’s response to this unprecedented virus.

"We are collaborating across industries to identify required parts, hone designs, and create them though the power of 3D printing technology. Our sincere thanks go to our employees, partners and customers for their tireless efforts in supporting the medical professionals on the front line in their hour of need.”

The UK response is part of a global effort to aid health workers using the manufacturing capabilities of 3D printing. In a matter of weeks, HP and its global community of partners and customers has used HP Jet Fusion systems to produce more than 1.5 million parts to help combat Covid-19.