February 16, 2015
NORTHBROOK, Ill., Feb. 16, 2015 — UL (Underwriters Laboratories), a global safety science leader, introduced a new online 3D printing course, “Foundations of 3D Printing,” geared to provide business professionals, engineers and designers a sound basic knowledge of the fast-emerging additive manufacturing industry.
“Foundations of 3D Printing” is an interactive four-module course made available through eLearning modules created by UL Digital Manufacturing Technologies (DMT). The course is designed for and intended to serve individuals using and relying on UL services.
“We’re excited to offer this training to our customers,” said DMT Vice President Simin Zhou. “Within such a diverse and fast-moving industry, we believe UL is uniquely positioned to provide a trusted, objective, independent point of view and expertise. This is the first step within our larger goal of helping to advance the 3D printing industry.”
Chris Krampitz, corporate strategy manager for DMT, said though additive manufacturing technology began in the 1980s, an article in The Economist five years ago really sparked interest in the technology. After that, Krampitz said UL started hearing about a lot of interest from manufacturers about integrating this technology into their production.
“One of the first things we saw,” Krampitz said, “is that not a lot of people knew how to use the technology.” UL Knowledge Services was then tasked to develop and offer a training service for the technology to bring manufacturers “up to speed,” he said.
“Foundations of 3D Printing” presents comprehensive introductory knowledge of the 3D printing industry. Covering terms and definitions, software and hardware as well as discussing applications and case studies, participants will be taught the benefits of 3D printing in a way relevant to their business needs.
In addition, Foundations of 3D Printing introduces concepts related to print process challenges and considerations, benefits and limitations of the applications of various technologies, quality and safety considerations.
Module 1, “Introduction to 3D Printing” provides a background of 3D printing, related terminology, a review of the seven unique 3D printing processes and basic applications. Module 2, “3D Printing Hardware & Software” explores the various software and hardware required for 3D printing. The module introduces computer-aided design, scanning and repair software as well as tiers of 3D printers, features and selection criteria considerations.
Module 3, “The 3D Printing Process” presents the four phases of the 3D printing process (digital file creation, preparation for printing, printing, post processing) in detail via a simulated case study. This module also begins to discuss quality and safety considerations specific to 3D printing. Module 4, “Applications of 3D printing” discusses applications of the technology within the aerospace, automotive, healthcare and consumer industries. In addition, the module introduces the 3D printing supply chain, end user categorization, and final considerations for implementing a 3D printing strategy.
UL is offering the four-module “Foundations of 3D Printing” course for $249. The online course takes about 2 ½ hours, 30 to 40 minutes per module, to complete.
About UL
UL is a premier global independent safety science company that has championed progress for 120 years. Its more than 10,000 professionals are guided by the UL mission to promote safe working and living environments for all people. UL uses research and standards to continually advance and meet ever-evolving safety needs. We partner with businesses, manufacturers, trade associations and international regulatory authorities to bring solutions to a more complex global supply chain. For more information about our certification, testing, inspection, advisory and education services.
About UL Digital Manufacturing Technologies
UL Digital Manufacturing Technologies is a trusted and reliable partner to 3D printing equipment and material manufacturers, retailers, and commercial and industrial companies. UL, with its 120-year history in safety science, is collaborating with the emerging 3D printing industry to advance education and training, close the knowledge transfer gap, enhance and simplify compliance, and interact with regulators on future issues. UL has a rich history as an independent organization with deep expertise in standards, compliance, testing, certification, manufacturing processes and engineering. For more information, visit https://industries.ul.com/additive-manufacturing.