A Welsh university engineering facility has acquired a market leading 3D printer with finance provided by Newport-based Henry Howard Finance, which will be used to develop and research the production of medical implants.

The support from HHF, which is based at Langstone Business Park, allowed the academic research body to purchase the ArcamQ10, a printer which engineers products in titanium.

The ArcamQ10 will enable the engineering team to produce detailed parts for orthopaedic surgical implants using information provided by CAT scan data. The printer can read a patient’s CAT scan, identify the medical implant needed and build a solution using technology known as electron beam melting (EBM).

The cutting-edge equipment will help the engineering facility move forward with their research, and will assist in the development of future 3D printers for medicine and manufacturing use.

Mark Crook, chief operating officer of Henry Howard Finance, said: “Acquiring innovative technology is often costly and so it makes sense for companies to use asset finance. Our leasing solutions allow a range of businesses, from SMEs to blue chip companies, to invest quickly whilst protecting working capital.

“We are keen to support further innovation across the medical and manufacturing sectors, both in Wales and across the UK.”