Three reasons to study Additive Manufacturing at Cranfield

“Do not hesitate. Additive manufacturing is a booming industry that is still at a primitive stage and promises a significant amount of novel work and research and development.”

Part-time boxer, Shantanu Mitra was first introduced to 3D printing during his undergraduate degree. He quickly became intrigued by its possibilities and Cranfield was his first choice when deciding on postgraduate study. Here Shantanu shares his main reasons for choosing Cranfield to study the Metal Additive Manufacturing MSc and why he has never regretted his choice.

“The course modules are well organised and include industrial visits that give you the chance to explore the fundamentals that you have learned during the assignments and lectures and to see how they are put into practice in the workplace.”

Shantanu was impressed with the Cranfield infrastructure in additive manufacturing and its reputation in the global transformation of direct energy deposition. The Metal Additive Manufacturing MSc is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and Royal Aeronautical Society (RaeS), which can help to obtain chartered status, making it the perfect course to help fulfil his career aspirations.

The course intensity was a welcome aspect for thrill-seeker Shantanu…

“It can be intense – you only have one year to complete your modules, group project and individual research. The course prepares you for the industry you will work in, so you can step into your new role after graduating with ease.”

Shantanu is focused on undertaking a PhD next, working towards and ultimate goal of becoming a professor. His current research is around a project that focuses on developing new materials for slurry pump components in mining, addressing issues with current materials. It aims to use wire and arc additive manufacturing (WAAM), a method offering advantages like shorter lead times and design flexibility.

Sponsored by the Weir Group, the project aims to understand metallurgy in WAAM, optimising processes for desired mechanical performance. A typical day for Shantanu includes lab work and experiments, followed by weekly meetings with his supervisor and the sponsoring company to keep track of the advances they make. He also gets the opportunity to travel for work with WAAM3D and The Weir Group, which gifts him with opportunities to work with and learn from others.

Shantanu feels the research impact includes technological innovation, industry transformation, global collaboration with companies like the Weir Group, Boeing, Airbus, WAAM3D, Rolls Royce, and the education of future experts, contributing to a positive global influence coming from different parts of the world.

After his studies, he would like to continue his research in the field of additive manufacturing, and contribute to building more spin-off companies and collaborations, and ultimately become a professor.

Find out more about Shantanu’s course: