*** Researchers to test new optical fibre 3D printing technique
Researchers at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) are set to investigate using 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, techniques in the fabrication of optical fibre.
This entirely new way of making fibre could pave the way for more complex structures capable of unlocking a host of applications in a wide range of industries, from biotechnology to aerospace and telecommunications.
As part of the project, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the researchers will be working with three companies: ES Technology (Oxford, UK), a provider of laser material processing systems; Fibercore (Southampton, UK) a supplier of specialty fibre; and SG Controls (Cambridge UK) a leading manufacturer of optical fibre equipment.