Mar 10, 2023 | 3D Printing
3D printing technology and materials have advanced rapidly, offering new possibilities and advantages for machine builders. Machine builders are replacing traditional CNC machining and urethane casting processes to use 3D printing for applications such as fixtures, EOAT, tricky custom details, and first shots of customer parts for debugging. Let’s explore some of the benefits of 3D printing for machine builders, focusing on design freedom, reducing lead time and cost, reducing detail count, replacing messy urethane casting, keeping debug timelines moving, and reducing weight.
Nov 15, 2022 | 3D Printing
Despite the promise of Additive Manufacturing (AM), many organizations have failed to capitalize on its potential. This is partly because AM presents a unique set of challenges, which can be difficult to overcome without extensive experience and expertise. As a result, many organizations have pursued applications that are not well-suited for AM, leading to late and expensive failures. In order to maximize the benefits of AM, organizations need to invest in and deliver successful applications. With the right approach, AM has the potential to change the world.
Feb 28, 2022 | 3D Printing, News
Michigan-based digital manufacturer, Extol, Inc., announces FDA registration for contract manufacturing of 3D printed medical devices. The FDA registration will allow Extol to expand its offerings for the life-sciences industry. It will immediately impact Extol’s capability to provide complete solutions for additive manufacturing of medical devices for the orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) market.
Oct 7, 2021 | 3D Printing, News
Extol has been awarded as a finalist for the Cool Parts Showcase by Additive Manufacturing Magazine for the Fited 3D printed scoliosis brace. The scoliosis brace is being developed by Fited and manufactured by Extol for mass customization.
Jun 24, 2021 | 3D Printing
We are always looking for innovative ways to solve customer challenges. Recently a customer came to us needing a creative solution for their application. We worked with them to develop a custom automation machine that capitalized on additive manufacturing. In this case, 3D printed tooling helped us produce cost-effective and easy-to-use equipment.
Dec 21, 2020 | 3D Printing
3D printing a single rapid prototype is now the accepted best practice for engineering and product development. But what if you want to take the next step to create even more value? How do you find and develop successful applications for functional prototypes and production?
As volumes increase to 10’s, 100’s, and 1000’s, the cost of 3D printing can become more difficult to justify. While it may take more effort, it also has the potential for a bigger payoff. Follow these 4 steps to unlock innovation and the full potential of 3D printing.