The Iowa Economic Development Authority board today voted to provide $100,000 toward the purchase of a metal 3-D printer that will be used to help Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service educate businesses across Iowa on the latest capabilities of additive manufacturing. The money also will help CIRAS train the next generation of workers in the technology and will support new faculty research. The total project is $900,000. The machine should be in place within a few months. The new system will use lasers and powdered metal to create metal parts or tools one layer at a time by following a computerized design. CIRAS estimates the installation will bring a $16 million boost to Iowa businesses. Read more