3D printed spare parts in industry: when it is a smart solution
Senesnėse staklėse ir gamybos linijose dažnai sugenda smulkios plastikinės detalės – kreiptuvai, laikikliai, krumpliaračiai, gaubtai, fiksatoriai. Originali dalis gali kainuoti kelis kartus brangiau nei verta, pristatymas užtrunka savaites, o seniems modeliams – detalių nebegaminama. Tokiais atvejais vis dažniau naudojamos 3D spausdintos atsarginės dalys.
When 3D printing makes sense
- Discontinued parts – when the original is no longer available but the equipment still works perfectly.
- Long lead time for originals – downtime often costs more than the part itself.
- Plastic parts under light loads – guides, brackets, spacers, caps.
- Improvements – the part can be reinforced where the original keeps breaking.
When to choose the original
- Safety-critical parts (guards, brakes, lifting mechanisms).
- High-load or high-temperature areas where metal is required.
- Parts subject to certification requirements (e.g. in the food industry, approved materials are required).
Materials
The most commonly used engineering materials in industry: PA12 (nylon), printed using SLS technology – strong, wear-resistant, suitable for moving parts; PETG and ABS/ASA – for brackets and housings; carbon fibre reinforced plastics – for stiffer parts. The right material is chosen based on load, temperature and environment (oil, humidity).
How to order
Accurate dimensions are most important. Photograph the part with a calliper or ruler, and specify the machine manufacturer and model, and the part number (if available). Even a broken part is often suitable for taking measurements.
You will find offers for 3D printed and other spare parts skelbimų skiltyje – there, industrial companies and craftsmen offer used, new and manufactured parts. Do you have parts to sell? Post an advert for free via your account.
