How 3D printing supports traditional production lines
Production managers face three major challenges in keeping their operation costs low
- Production line support consumables are relatively expensive
- Large quantities of such consumables have to be kept on stock
- Customized jigs and fixtures take a lot of time to fabricate
Cutting costs
3D printers can print consumables like rubber robotic arm grippers at a fraction of their market price.
In-house fabrication
Jigs, fixtures, and other consumables can be 3D printed on the spot when they are needed.
Customized parts
It’s possible to 3D print one-off parts designed for specific applications at specific production plants.
Reducing storage
Production line consumables can be 3D printed on an on-demand basis and don’t need to be held on stock.