Industrial AMKingston University adds Rapid Fusion robot cell and training links
Kingston University has installed a Rapid Fusion Zeus Robotic Cell worth GBP 450,000 at its Roehampton Vale site. The system prints large parts and mills them in a single setup, and Rapid Fusion adds placements, possible KTP projects and curriculum input. It is the first time the company has placed this system in a university.
Key facts- Price of the installed system: GBP 450,000
- Location: Roehampton Vale, Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment
- Rapid Fusion offers placements, possible KTP projects and curriculum input
- First Zeus system placed in a university
What was installed and for whom?
The Zeus Robotic Cell serves researchers and students in the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment. It joins large-format printing with CNC milling in one modular system. The university expects less outsourcing, a smoother production flow and more repeatable quality, mainly for prototypes and low-volume complex components.
What does Rapid Fusion commit to?
The Exeter-based company promises work placements, possible Knowledge Transfer Partnership opportunities and input into future teaching. CEO Jake Hand says the cell lets users print, scan and mill in one solution, which removes secondary operations and avoids manually entered toolpaths. He also points to a UK skills gap in robotics and 3D printing.
What it means
For manufacturers, the case shows how hybrid print-and-mill cells are entering training, which affects where robotics-literate AM staff will come from. Small firms can use university cells for trials before buying. The claimed gains in tolerance and fewer secondary operations come from the vendor and the university, not from published part data. This continues the earlier report on the same GBP 450,000 cell.
Frequently asked questions
How much did the Zeus Robotic Cell cost?
Kingston University installed the system at a price of GBP 450,000 at its Roehampton Vale site.
Is this Rapid Fusion's first university installation?
Yes. CEO Jake Hand says it is the first time the company has put this system into a university.