3D printing for obsolete machines and prototypes
One might find the idea surprising, but that is the strength of additive manufacturing: recreating parts that do not exist or no longer exist.
Rapid prototyping
3D printing is often referred to as the technology of the future, allowing the development of prototypes with previously impossible shapes, while optimizing structure, weight and cost. This is indeed true and the industry is investing more and more in these machines that allow to accelerate the product development cycle. Companies are also increasingly turning to specialized printing service companies such as Axis, which is equipped with various technologies to cover a wide range of needs. Axis works with many partners such as HP, 3D systems, EOS, Stratasys, Raplas, e-motion Tech, Rösler…
On the prototyping side, Axis helped Daan Tech on the innovative project of Bob the mini dishwasher, entirely produced in France.
3D printing also comes to the rescue of companies that need to replace a mechanical part in a machine that has been inservice for years, and is therefore out of stock. When the machine is inexpensive and a new model brings new features, the investment seems appropriate. But when the machine costs several thousand euros and a simple defective part blocks its use, a solution must be found to repair it.
Production of obsolete parts
This was the case for this customer, an industrial pump installer and repairer, who needed to replace a part that no longer existed on a particular model. With a traditional approach, he had to create a mold (for a single piece) which already cost him between 4,000 and 5,000€. It was then necessary to count 4,000€ more to make a casting and rework the piece.
Thanks to 3D printing, the part could be created directly in the right material, without going through a mold, in a very short production time and for a fraction of the price. Afterwards, if the customer wants a new part, it is enough to restart a print on demand. No need to stock spare parts “just in case” that generate inventory and cost money.
So if you too need to create a unique piece, contact our experts who will be able to guide you in your project.
