King Abdulaziz University of Saudi Arabia and NAMI Sign Memorandum of Understanding on Additive Manufacturing Research

en.Wedoany.com Reported - King Abdulaziz University (KAU) and National Innovation Industrial Company (NAMI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing additive manufacturing as the main line of cooperation, building collaborative relationships in three directions: scientific research, talent development, and industrial application.

NAMI is an additive manufacturing-focused enterprise funded by Dussur, 3D Systems, and Saudi Energy. According to the company, the signing is intended to open channels for exchanging expertise between the two parties, enhancing capabilities across research, training, consulting, reverse engineering, and additive manufacturing.

The R&D arrangements are relatively specific: reverse engineering and additive manufacturing have been designated as joint research targets, and the two parties will also jointly undertake prototype fabrication during the research phase and organize expert assessment-type projects.

In terms of materials and design, polymers, metals, and composites are all under exploration and improvement, with engineering design solutions and prototype development advancing in parallel.

With respect to industry standards, the two parties plan to launch qualification and certification programs serving additive manufacturing applications, with the goal of aligning with both local and international standards. The cooperation terms also include student training courses, graduation project supervision, consulting services, and joint competitions themed around additive manufacturing.

According to NAMI, the agreement allows the university to use its laboratories for testing and to participate in externally supported research projects.

Signing on behalf of the university was Professor Alaa Attar, Dean of the College of Engineering at Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, while NAMI Chief Executive Officer Mohammed bin Munther Swaidan signed on behalf of the company.

This memorandum is one of NAMI's moves to expand its additive manufacturing footprint in the Gulf region. Previously, the company signed a cooperation agreement with MBK Global.