Additive manufacturing – a technology transforming industry
3D printing enables the production of complex and customised components by building material layer by layer. The technology is, among other things, effective for small production batches and spare parts, where traditional methods often involve high costs and longer lead times. Additive manufacturing eliminates the need for moulds and generates minimal waste, making it a resource-saving, flexible and efficient solution for modern production challenges.
A new standard for spare parts
Digital warehousing stores product data and design documents digitally, eliminating the need for large inventories of physical products. When a spare part or component is required, it can be produced on demand using 3D printing. This reduces inventory costs, increases flexibility, and allows for rapid responses to market demands. For industries reliant on older machinery, where spare parts can be difficult to source, this concept offers entirely new possibilities.
A recent project highlights the potential of combining additive manufacturing with digital warehousing. When a critical spare part for older equipment could no longer be ordered through traditional channels, Lasertech used 3D printing and reverse engineering to recreate the missing component. Within just a few weeks, the equipment was back in operation – a process that would otherwise have taken several months. The product is now stored digitally and can be reordered as needed.
