An overview is given of research activity in solid freeform fabrication (SFF) in England's Northwest, concentrating on work in the Laser Group at University of Liverpool (including the Lairdside Laser Engineering Centre) and at the Laser Processing Research Centre at UMIST. This work is placed in the context of the strategy for science in the Northwest and its aims in developing and supporting industrial capability, showing that laser based approaches, including SFF, are regarded as key enabling technologies. The account also includes a consideration of the interface between SFF and other "Direct Write" technologies and outlines the recent development of Direct Write initiatives in the UK.
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