Learn how to streamline the process of getting 3D printed replacement parts for your equipment. From part assessment to production options, discover how software can simplify the entire process.
Do you need a replacement part to get your equipment back up and running?
Today, 3D printed replacement parts are becoming an increasingly popular solution for overcoming procurement challenges associated with traditionally manufactured parts. Supply chain disruptions and long production lead times can make getting replacement parts for critical equipment a lengthy and expensive process.
In this article, we'll explore the simplest way to obtain 3D printed replacement parts.
Is Your Part 3D Printable?
When organizations explore 3D printing as an alternative production method, they typically fall into one of two categories. The first group knows which part they want to 3D print but needs support determining whether it can be successfully 3D printed and used on their equipment. The second group has a high volume of parts they want to evaluate for 3D printing opportunities. From these parts, they want to know what can be 3D printed and, if so, at what cost.
Evaluating parts for 3D printing can be a manual and time-consuming process that often requires the expertise of additive manufacturing engineers. These experts assess whether a part can be 3D printed and whether it will perform as well as, or better than, a traditionally manufactured part.
However, not everyone has the necessary skills or expertise to make these assessments. That's where 3YOURMIND's AM Part Identifier comes in. This software can analyze your part data, determine if the part can be 3D printed, recommend suitable materials and 3D printing technologies, and provide economic insights to help you decide if 3D printing is the most cost-effective option.
3YOURMIND allows you to check whether your part can be 3D printed.
Want to know if your part is printable? We can help.
What's the Best Way to Get a 3D Printed Replacement Part?
Once you've determined that your part can be 3D printed, the next step is to decide how you want it produced. You have two popular options: order parts from a contract manufacturer or produce parts in-house using your own machine (more on that later).
For now, let's focus on ordering parts from a contract manufacturer, also known as a 3D printing service bureau. But how do you choose the right manufacturer?
The choice ultimately depends on your part and its specific requirements. Service bureaus often specialize in certain materials, machines, and industries. For instance, if your part is made of plastic, you'll have many service bureaus to choose from. However, suppose your part requires specialized materials like metal, silicone, or concrete. In that case, your options may be more limited, and you'll need to consider longer shipping times if a service isn't available in your area.
3YOURMIND provides workflow software to dozens of service bureaus across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa, serving medical, defense, energy, and consumer goods industries.
While service bureaus enjoy the primary value of 3YOURMIND, customers that need their parts printed also enjoy significant benefits.
How?
Each service bureau has a personalized portal where customers can order parts from their catalog. 3YOURMIND instantly generates price quotes based on the service bureau's pricing formulas, allowing customers to quickly see the cost of their order and place it without worrying about unexpected fees.
3YOURMIND streamlines the ordering experience with automatic price quotes and status updates.
Customers can also securely upload their part files to the portal, which is ideal for protecting intellectual property (IP). The service bureau can send the files directly to their 3D printers without accessing your IP. Additionally, 3YOURMIND allows service bureaus to analyze your part's printability before production begins, avoiding costly reprints and saving time.
Moreover, 3YOURMIND automatically sends notifications about the status of your part order, whether it's received, in production, or ready for delivery, so you always know where your order stands.
Ultimately, service bureaus use 3YOURMIND to streamline their operations, allowing them to focus more on customer service and creating high-quality parts.
What if You Want to Produce Your Own 3D Printed Replacement Part?
3D printing has evolved beyond desktop machines producing simple objects. Today, industrial 3D printers can create everything from 3D printed houses to intricate nano prints for medical and aerospace components. If you're considering investing in an industrial 3D printer and want to understand the potential return on investment, EOS and Additive Minds can help.
Additive Minds is a consulting program specializing in additive manufacturing (AM) that helps companies accelerate the adoption of AM and maximize the use of EOS' industrial 3D printers. Together with 3YOURMIND, Additive Minds developed the Rapid Part Identifier program, which includes access to 3YOURMIND's AM Part Identifier Tool.
Rapid Part Identifier allows you to assess whether parts can be printed on EOS machines.
Through this program, you can select parts to be assessed by 3YOURMIND to determine if they can be 3D printed, which EOS machine is suitable, and the estimated cost per part. With this information, you can refine your AM strategy and make informed decisions about your equipment investment.
3D Printed Replacement Parts: The Future of Equipment Repair
In conclusion, 3D printed replacement parts offer a viable and efficient solution to overcome the challenges associated with traditional manufacturing methods. Whether you're looking to assess the feasibility of 3D printing specific parts or need support in choosing the right production method, 3YOURMIND provides the tools and expertise to streamline the process.
From part evaluation to production, 3D printing opens up new possibilities for reducing lead times, costs, and supply chain disruptions. By leveraging advanced software like 3YOURMIND and partnering with industry experts, you can ensure that your equipment stays operational with high-quality, cost-effective replacement parts. Whether you choose to work with a service bureau or invest in your own 3D printing capabilities, the future of manufacturing is here, and it's more accessible than ever.
Register for our upcoming webinar with Additive Minds' David Krzeminski to learn how companies can justify their AM strategy before purchasing their next EOS machine.
