No need for 3d printing? We do not really believe that...

"We have no need for 3D printing" is a statement you still hear from time to time. If you associate 3D printing only with prototypes, or with abstract applications that have nothing to do with your own business, it's not surprising. Likewise, news of large aerospace or automotive companies printing very innovative parts can distract from the fact that there are applications for every business.

In this article you will find information for the following industries:

• Mechanical and plant engineering: prototypes, series components and more
• Electrical engineering industry
• For all industries: Tools, aids and spare parts
• Medical technology
• Architecture, fashion and design

In mechanical and plant engineering, it is already hard to imagine life today without 3D printing. There are an enormous number of use cases that can be made more suitable or economical with additive manufacturing. Some examples:

• Components that have unnecessarily complex geometries (see topology optimization).
• Components that are too heavy but still need to be stable (cf. lattice structures and bionics)
• Components in lightweight design or with lattice structures
• Bins and sorters for the transport of parts in a plant
• Material slides
• Components that have unnecessary sharp edges (provided with curves)
• Components with media ducts, for example cable ducts for robot arms, air ducts for cooling, etc.
• Assemblies whose interaction of components is not optimal, for example with milled and turned parts, standard parts and seals (combine in one component)
• Weaknesses in element connections between components that have arisen due to limitations in conventional manufacturing (optimize)
• Molds for injection molded parts
• Small series that would be too expensive in conventional production
• Series components in larger series, if components can be optimized (cf. additively manufactured series with 10,000 units and more)

• Medical aids and devices with customized parts
• Customized prostheses, orthotics, insoles, etc.
• Patient specific models for surgery planning

Note: various materials with ISO standard 10993 are available on the platform: e.g. ULTEM 1010 (FDM), PA11 (SAF)

• Architectural models
• Customized design items
• Shoe soles and other personalized fashion items
• Packaging with special shapes for luxury items
• Company logos in 3D
• Personalized promotional gifts in small quantities
• And much more.

Note: many materials on the platform have been specifically developed for highly technical applications in industry and must meet corresponding properties that would not be necessary for design items, for example. As a result, the price may be higher than for low-cost suppliers with lower-quality materials. Ask your Solution Partner for advice on which material is suitable for your application.

The design of components has a significant influence on whether 3D printing is worthwhile, as components can be greatly optimized. What was not producible in conventional manufacturing can be easily produced in 3D printing. Please also read the following articles:

We wish you much success with 3D printing and your projects and are always happy to answer any questions you may have.

Your Jellypipe