Oakville, Ontario-based pipe manufacturer Ipex Group has invested more than $20 million in a research facility in Mississauga, Ontario, that offers 3D printing and artificial intelligence to streamline product development.
The Ipex Center for Advanced Research features 50,000 square feet of space for testing new products, trialing new materials and training as well as offices.
The center consolidates Ipex's processes to bring new products to market faster for the municipal, industrial, commercial and residential sectors, according to Ipex CEO Alex Mestres.
"Our new innovation hub is a significant investment in our ability to develop high-quality, safe and easy-to-install products that meet the needs of our customers while supporting our communities," Mestres said in a news release.
"For more than 50 years, our R&D teams have collaborated closely with our customers to stay ahead of market demands, evolving regulations and environmental changes to develop products and exceed industry expectations. Our new Center for Advanced Research marks a new chapter in our innovation history and capability," Mestres added.
With $1.68 billion in estimated sales, Ipex is the fifth-largest pipe, profile and tubing producer in North America, according to Plastics News' latest ranking.
Owned by Brussels-based Aliaxis SA, Ipex Group has 13 manufacturing facilities in North America.
The company invests regularly to solve infrastructure challenges and make "transformational impacts" to the industry, according to Trevor Johnston, Ipex vice president of R&D, innovation and sustainability.
"As demand for custom solutions grow, our development and testing processes allow us to accelerate our innovation, look for new ways to design and build products that adapt to industry changes," Johnston said.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford attended the grand-opening event.
"Our government will keep working to ensure the right conditions are in place for companies like Ipex to thrive and expand right here in Ontario," Ford said.