Boosting laser-based manufacturing in Europe
The EU-funded PULSATE project has launched an open call to select up to 18 SMEs interested in adopting laser-based advanced and additive manufacturing (LBAAM) technology. With the main aim to boost the digitalisation of Europe’s manufacturing industry, PULSATE believes that LBAAM technology can enable flexible manufacturing and highly digitalised production in many European sectors. This is the second and final open call launched since the project began in 2020. The first call resulted in 18 participants from 12 European countries selected out of 53 submitted proposals to receive mentoring and financial support. Winners of the second open call will receive up to EUR 25 000 in funding, as well as business and technical support to help them confirm the feasibility of implementing LBAAM technology in their particular environment.
A turning point for industries
LBAAM technology has the potential to radically change European industries. As mentioned in a press release posted on the PULSATE website, it “represents a turning point for many industries aiming to achieve flexible manufacturing solutions and highly digitalized production environments.” The technology is especially beneficial for sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, industrial machinery, customised electronics, and textile and clothing. The key drivers of enhanced EU manufacturing are lower production costs, reduced time to market, improved quality and flexibility, access to skills and knowledge, less risk and market access. PULSATE helps to ease the way towards laser manufacturing for participants through the high-level expertise of its consortium comprising six LBAAM and digitisation competence centres, the European Photonics Industry Consortium and two highly innovative SMEs. The PULSATE programme is open to SMEs or slightly bigger companies from the EU, associated countries and the United Kingdom. Applicants should have a clear vision of how LBAAM technology can be applied in their processes, products and business models. The application deadline for the call is 30 June 2023. Detailed information on the call, application requirements and recommendations, along with necessary documents and application forms, can be found on the PULSATE (Fostering the PAN-European infrastructure for empowering SMEs digital competences in laser-based advance and additive manufacturing.) application site. For more information, please see: PULSATE project website
Keywords
PULSATE, laser, manufacturing, laser-based advanced and additive manufacturing, LBAAM, open call, SME