3D Systems On Demand is a service bureau fulfilling the needs of customers seeking prototyping and low-volume parts production. Offering a mixture of traditional and additive manufacturing processes, the company has capabilities in 3D printing, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, metal die casting and plastic injection molding.
Though part of a highly competitive service bureau market for parts manufacturing, 3D Systems On Demand services benefit distinctively from its heritage as one of the founders of additive manufacturing. One of the advantages of this alignment is an integrated additive and traditional approach, where 3D printing and traditional processes compliment each other to support the fulfilment of production orders.
In a new eBook, integrated additive and traditional manufacturing approaches are detailed by 3D Systems as part of an exploration of The Benefits of Traditional and Additive Manufacturing from a Single Source.
Integrated additive and traditional manufacturing
Described as “the best of both worlds” by 3D Systems, an integrated additive and traditional manufacturing approach pairs the design complexity and relative speed of 3D printing with the precision and materials offered by other techniques.
In cast urethane, for example, the physical properties, color, texture and feel of injection molded parts can be replicated at low volumes, ideal in pre-production. A wide range of rigid, clear, and elastomeric resins can be used in this method, and it is applied to various industrial applications, such as the construction of conveyor systems or rotating machinery.
Typically, the master patterns used for cast urethane would be produced using CNC machining. However, when 3D printing is applied to this process, master patterns can be created much faster, and more economically. For the customer this can mean a more competitive price tag and, ultimately, faster turnaround for their project resulting in more rapid time to market. In one example given in The Benefits of Traditional and Additive Manufacturing from a Single Source, the company shows how SLS, SLA and traditional modes have been combined to create a full car prototype in just eight weeks. The document also features a case study from Birdstone, a packaging agency with a project for carbonated drinks brand Schweppes.
For further details, and more benefits of a combined traditional and additive manufacturing approach, download the eBook here.
Get a quote for your next manufacturing project
As a service for prototyping and production, 3D Systems On Demand believes it is essential that a customer’s initial design intent is not compromised. In addition to its variety of services, the company ensures this is achieved by providing its customers access to production at nine facilities located across Europe, Australia and the Americas. 3D Systems On Demand also offers local specialist support lines in Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, the U.S., UK and the Netherlands, and an online quoting portal which typically delivers responses within 24 hours of receiving a CAD file.
Get your quote now, or for help and consultation on part orders, contact 3D Systems direct.
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Featured image shows a car dashboard design. Photo via 3D Systems
