How does additive manufacturing streamline the manufacturing process?
Additive manufacturing can streamline the manufacturing process by reducing the time needed to create functional prototypes. 3D printing serves as a substitute for molding or machining on low-volume parts that may be difficult to source. Or makers can apply this technology to produce tooling that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive to make under traditional manufacturing methods. This option dramatically increases efficiency. Each manufacturer is unique in their application, but all stand to benefit from 3D manufacturing critical to tooling and making parts in-house versus relying on an unstable supply chain.
One step further, explain how this technology can circumvent supply chain bottlenecks.
If you have critical tooling or machine parts that break, and those items cannot be delivered for a week or more — due to transportation, production, customs, etc. issues — why not just print a replacement part in-house? We find that getting the manufacturing line up and running in a matter of hours is an economical option until the replacement arrives. Better yet, why not design a part to print that will outlast the OEM version?
What performance metrics are useful when setting up a structured 3D manufacturing format?
Think about the same metrics a manager would use for any other type of manufacturing. Consider how much money this job will save the organization over that given length of time. Ask how many hours are you saving customer “X” with a more ergonomic tool or an inexpensive way to quality-check the products — or only have to assemble three pieces instead of five?
What tips do you suggest that a traditional manufacturer weigh when contemplating an investment in additive production?
Here are three reasons to give thought to when weighing the options. First, recognize that you can print functional parts that are stronger than aluminum on a desktop printer. They aren’t exclusive to fitment testing and deliver a wide variety of applications!
Second, don’t let technology intimidate you. Additive manufacturing may seem like a sci-fi concept when printing complex geometries with a wide range of metals and plastics. But running 3D printers is actually very easy and requires minimal training.
Finally, look for situations when you could not source a part that you needed to be delivered on time. You could have used a custom tool or quality gauge, but it would have been too expensive. Or you wanted to produce parts internally in less time at less cost. These examples present an opportunity for 3D printing. Often, we have learned that once a customer acquires a printer for in-house use and they have a chance to play with the technology, they discover tons of unintended best use-cases. And they realize the wide variety of applications 3D printing can serve.
