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A new facility dedicated to additive manufacturing training has opened in Louisville, Kentucky. Located on the University of Louisville (UofL) campus, the UL Additive Manufacturing Competency Center (AMCC) is the result of a partnership between the university and Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the safety science organization. An open house with ribbon cutting February 16 commemorated the opening of the center, which began offering courses late last year.

The UL AMCC is set up to illustrate the entire metal additive manufacturing process. It boasts a computer lab for designing and programming AM parts; two selective laser melting machines stocked with stainless steel powder; and a selection of postprocessing, finishing and inspection equipment. The center’s students learn about production, best practices and safety procedures through hands-on interaction with these machines.

Most of the students who come through the UL AMCC work for manufacturers who already own AM equipment, but no prior experience is necessary. Courses are available in three different tiers. Tier 1 provides foundational classes in the basics of 3D printing and additive manufacturing, and is a good starting place for beginners or those who are just thinking about an equipment purchase. Tier 2 includes training in AM design, safety, materials and processes, and Tier 3 offers advanced training in metal part production. A formal certification process developed by UL is available to students who demonstrate required competencies.

The UL AMCC plans to add courses and sections in the future and will update its curriculum every six to 12 months as technologies evolve. on the Additive Manufacturing website to learn more about this facility and see photos from the grand opening.