Lets talk: 3D printing
machines. Cheap machines in combination with a little knowledge learnt on YouTube typically results in the world’s worst 3D-printed parts. That idea of 3D printing is very far removed from the professional arena in which we operate.” Educate to accumulate Jo is also keen to educate industry and enhance the image of additive manufacturing processes: “Some still see 3D printing as a quick fix to something, and continue to place way more trust in traditional subtractive processes. But that’s a misconception. We make fully engineered, high-quality end-use parts. It’s not just about prototyping anymore. We’re happy to demonstrate the quality of 3D-printed parts to anyone.” Although 3D printing offers unparalleled design freedom and agility, if the process is genuinely not the optimal solution for the part, Inventex will help the customer to make it using other manufacturing techniques that include CNC machining, injection moulding, casting, laser cutting or fabrication. As a problem-solver, Inventex is not about telling customers what can’t be done, but what can be done and how the company is able to optimise the designs of 3D-printed components to drive efficiencies and save money. Typically, this forms part of a proven four-part process: planning, CAD model creation, prototyping
cost of FDM is vastly cheaper, while also being far more eco-friendly. Resin printing remains a mucky, rather dirty process.” 3D printing comes clean To ensure the ongoing quality of parts produced at Inventex, the company is extremely strict about machine maintenance, to a level where its 3D printers still look new. Even those with thousands of hours on the clock. “As a process, many think 3D printing is still a little rough around the edges, but you’d think the parts we produce were injection moulded,” reveals Jo. “We try very hard to design parts in such a way to minimise any extra finishing, saving both time and money for the customer.” She adds: “Although more industries are coming on board with 3D printing, it remains a grey area for some, which is frustrating,” she says. “However, we find that once a customer tries 3D printing for the first time, they wonder why they hadn’t done so before.” Part of the problem is that a little knowledge can sometimes be a bad thing, particularly with the advent of extremely cheap, hobbyist style 3D printers. “You can buy a 3D printer from a budget supermarket for less than £90,” says Darren. “That won’t even cover a replacement fan on our
and production - prioritising client- centric preferences throughout. Concludes Darren: “If you can think it, we
can design it and we can make it, whether you need one or thousands.” n the3dprinters. co.uk
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