There are many examples that 3D printing additive manufacturing is more effective and cost-effective, but in most cases, traditional manufacturing techniques are still the best.
Because in the time it takes to produce a custom 3d-printed part, a traditional manufacturing process can produce hundreds or even thousands of parts.
Even for small parts like dental or medical implants, the printing process can take several hours, and then each part needs to be individually processed and smoothed.
That may be about to change, however, with a consortium of technology companies, led by the European Union, aiming to develop high-performance production lines by integrating 3D printing and surface treatment technologies.
Recently, a European additive manufacturing project called Hyproline demonstrated its new additive manufacturing system, which has been optimized for high-speed production of widgets.
The system can 3D print small batches or individually customized metal parts using 316L stainless steel, titanium or copper, eventually printing and removing excess material, and then automatically removing the finished product from the production line.
Print Valley can accommodate multiple custom modules, except for those included in the Hyproline demonstration unit.This means that almost any type of manufacturing or assembly system can be included, including CNC milling machines, inkjet 3D printing systems and tools to colour parts.
