The advantages of 3D printing jigs & fixtures
Fixtures are fundamental and crucial elements of any manufacturing process. They are used to hold one or several workpieces in a fixed location securely during various process steps like assembly, bonding, post processing, transport or final quality measurement.
3D printing provides a fast and cost-effective production process especially in the context of low-volumes that are typically given for fixtures and other production aids. Establishing Additive Manufacturing for fixtures results in reduced operational costs, reduced lead times and improved efficiencies of the work floor. Since 3D printing does not require any tooling upfront, tailor-made fixtures can be produced efficiently that serve the respective process step perfectly. The underlying CAD file can be redesigned and reprinted anytime allowing the user to adapt fixtures even last minute or according to any future process iteration.
Upload your workpiece
The workflow begins with uploading of the workpiece which can be either in .STL or .STEP file format.
Using the gizmo control element, you can position or orientate the workpiece in the desired way.
Define the baseplate
Choose your preferred style of baseplate which can be either part of the 3D printed model or an existing conventionally manufactured standard component.