Manufacturing organizations have replaced the majority of the human resources with the latest technology that uses computer-aided design (CAD) to produce three-dimensional objects; 3D printing. Several items in different sizes, shapes and colours can be manufactured through the layering of materials like composites, plastics or biomaterials by the implementation of the new technique.
Today, production managers are keen on the purchase of 3d printer for plastic parts due to the privileges offered. Let us give you a glimpse of both benefits and drawbacks for informed decision making.
Common reasons to prefer the 3D printing method
Standard benefits exist for any commodity; the same way this technique carries faculties as mentioned below.
- Flexibility
- Storage
- Suitability
- Budget-friendly
Flexibility: This feature covers complex designs which are otherwise left out by traditional printing machines.
3D printing can efficiently manufacture products within hours meaning is a faster approach to design items. It is a time-saving method.
Storage: The parts manufactured with 3D technology require virtual space. These will later be printed using either CAD or STL files. Modifications can be done in the system without the involvement of additional inventory and costs. Manufacture on demand is a benefit that eliminates the need for storage of bulk inventory.
Suitability: The plastic material is lighter in weight compared to metals. Properties such as higher strength, water repellency or heat resistance can be introduced with the use of tailored materials.
In comparison to alternatives, this technique uses a lower amount of material for the production of a single part. In a way produces less wastage.
Budget-friendly: A single-step procedure doesn’t incur costs related to intermediary machines. Also, it doesn’t need the constant attention of the employees as it is semi-automatic, unlike its substitutes. The cost and effort could be reduced if the process is outsourced.
The machines produce less waste meaning less harmful to the environment. Here are a few drawbacks:
- Though the technological facility is easy to implement, not all materials withstand certain temperatures. In addition, a few of the produced parts may not be suitable for food storage and are unrecyclable.
- The printing chambers are smaller and can only design parts as per the accommodation, which means it takes time and manual labour to join serval parts to make one big size product.
- As it is a single-step process, it requires less labour work, which means leads to the reduction of human resources. Cost-cutting through the removal of employees can be prevalent.
Proper analysis and estimation ofthe company’s size and departmental needs to buy a 3d printer for plastic parts are mandatory.
