Tauranga's growing reputation as a pioneer in the field of space age 3D metal printing will be the focus of the next Café Scientific presentation.

Warwick Downing, Chief Executive of Tauriko-based RAM3D, will update the meeting on developments in the world-leading technology over the last five years, and Tauranga's role at the forefront of it.

3D printing in plastic has become common in recent years, but using metal as the printing material takes the process up a level in complexity – and usefulness.

Warwick's company uses powdered metals, including titanium, to make perfectly-shaped products from bone implants for pets and humans to boat parts to help Peter Burling bring home world yachting titles. They are planning to take their total of 3D metal printing machines to 20 by 2020 to keep up with demand.

A critical mass of far-sighted business people in Tauranga in the late 1990s saw the potential of the technology and came together to develop the capital-intensive industry. Since then they have put the city on the global map in the field, with companies as diverse as aircraft manufacturing giant Boeing and upmarket London retail mecca Harrods using their products.

The University of Waikato's Café Scientifique is staging the presentation, aimed at the wider community and anyone with an interest in the subject, at Tauranga Yacht & Power Boat Club this Monday from 6:30pm.

For further information and to register go to https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/