The arena of additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, has matured significantly since its inception. It is no longer confined to the realm of prototyping but is now becoming a viable production method for end-use parts.Â
With advancements in machine capabilities, materials, and technologies, industrial-scale additive manufacturing has emerged as a revolutionary approach to producing high-quality, complex components that were once impossible to produce using traditional manufacturing methods. As Australia and New Zealand’s leading provider of Stratasys, Lithoz, and Artec 3D Printer and 3D Scanner solutions, Objective3D is dedicated to helping businesses unlock the full potential of industrial-scale additive manufacturing for unparalleled efficiency, innovation, and success in production applications.
In this engaging and informative article, we will delve into the world of industrial-scale additive manufacturing, highlighting the technology’s benefits and its transformative impact on production processes. We will examine the qualities that differentiate industrial additive manufacturing from traditional 3D printing applications, discuss the wide array of materials and technologies available, and reveal how Objective3D’s tailored solutions and expert support can help businesses implement industrial-scale additive manufacturing strategies for success in today’s competitive market.
Additive manufacturing has come a long way since its early days as a rapid prototyping tool. Initially, the technology was primarily used for creating concept models and prototypes to help designers visualise and refine their ideas. However, as capabilities have advanced, additive manufacturing has evolved into a versatile production method capable of creating fully functional, ready-to-use parts.
Several factors have driven this shift towards industrial-scale additive manufacturing, including:
Faster print speeds, resulting in increased production capabilities
The development of stronger, more durable materials suitable for end-use parts
Improvements in software, enabling better design optimisation and manufacturing process control
Increased repeatability and reliability due to advancements in machine technologies
With these advancements, additive manufacturing is now poised to revolutionise production processes, empowering businesses to create innovative products and redefine the limits of what is possible.
A wide array of additive manufacturing technologies and materials is available for producing end-use parts, enabling businesses to choose the most suitable option for their specific application and requirements. Some of the most common industrial-scale additive manufacturing technologies include:
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM): This process involves the extrusion of thermoplastic materials, layer by layer, to build parts. FDM is ideal for functional prototypes and end-use parts made from engineering-grade thermoplastics.
Stereolithography (SLA): SLA uses a laser to selectively cure liquid photopolymers, creating solid, high-resolution parts. With a range of available materials, including advanced resins that mimic traditional materials, SLA is well-suited for intricate and highly detailed parts.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): SLS employs a laser to sinter powdered materials, such as nylon or metal, to create complex and durable parts. This process opens up possibilities for producing robust, functional components with minimal material waste and without the need for support structures.
Each technology offers unique advantages and applications, allowing businesses to choose the right fit for their production needs, whether that be aerospace, automotive, medical, or consumer products.
Industrial-scale additive manufacturing offers numerous benefits, bringing transformative changes to the world of production:
Design Freedom: Complex geometries, previously impossible or too costly to manufacture using traditional methods, can now be realized through additive manufacturing. This enables businesses to create innovative products with enhanced performance characteristics and unique design features.
Reduced Lead Times: Additive manufacturing shortens production timelines by eliminating the need for time-consuming moulds, tooling, and post-processing steps. This allows businesses to bring products to market more rapidly and respond more effectively to changing customer needs.
Cost-Effective Production: Industrial-scale additive manufacturing enables cost-effective production of low- to mid-volume runs, reducing inventory costs and waste. Additionally, design optimization for additive manufacturing can minimize material usage and weight, further reducing costs.
Customization and Personalization: Additive manufacturing allows for effortless customization, empowering businesses to offer bespoke, personalized products or create tailored solutions for specific customer requirements.
Across various sectors, businesses are taking advantage of industrial-scale additive manufacturing for production applications:
Aerospace: Additive manufacturing enables the creation of lightweight, complex components that reduce fuel consumption and increase overall efficiency, resulting in cost savings and improved environmental performance.
Automotive: From engine components to customized interior trim, additive manufacturing allows automotive manufacturers to create more complex, innovative parts that improve vehicle performance and aesthetics.
Medical Device Manufacturing: Additive manufacturing opens up opportunities for personalised patient care, creating custom medical devices, such as implants and prosthetics, tailored to the specific needs of individual patients.
Consumer Products: Businesses can use industrial-scale additive manufacturing to produce new and innovative consumer products, from intricate jewellery designs to customised electronics accessories.
Objective3D is committed to helping businesses harness the potential of industrial-scale additive manufacturing through expert guidance, tailored solutions, and ongoing support:
Advanced Additive Manufacturing Solutions: Objective3D offers an extensive range of Stratasys, and Lithoz 3D printing solutions to meet your specific production requirements.
Expert Consultation: Objective3D’s team of experts can work with you to identify the right additive manufacturing technology and materials for your application, ensuring the optimal integration of the technology into your production processes.
Training and Support: Objective3D provides comprehensive training and support, ensuring your team is confident and proficient in using industrial-scale additive manufacturing technology to its full potential.
The rapid advancement of additive manufacturing technologies has driven a paradigm shift in production methods, opening up new possibilities for innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness. Objective3D is dedicated to supporting businesses across Australia and New Zealand as they navigate the world of industrial-scale additive manufacturing, offering expert advice, cutting-edge technology, and unwavering support.
Ready for your business to thrive with industrial-scale additive manufacturing? Contact Objective3D today to learn more about our range of 3D printing services in Melbourne and how our team of experts can help you bring your production goals to life.
Objective3D is a leading provider of Additive Manufacturing (AM) solutions in Australia and New Zealand. They offer a range technology solution for thermoplastic and photopolymer from Stratasys, ceramics from Lithoz, as well as Artec 3D Scanners and Materialise AM Software. Supported by the Stratasys Direct Manufacturing Global Network, Objective3D also offers manufacturing on-demand services and is ISO 9001 certified.
AU Phone: +613 9785 2333
NZ Phone: +649 801 0380