At Re3DTech, we’re committed to helping our customers better understand additive manufacturing. We use our LAYER3D blog to peel back the layers of the 3D printing industry and explore all topics relating to this incredible technology.
Since its inception in the 1980s, 3D printing has traditionally been used for prototyping purposes. Now, thanks to recent advancements in industrial 3D printing technologies, it’s possible to use 3D printing services for production quantities as well.
But what happens when you need quantities that are higher than a single prototype and lower than mass production volumes? This scenario is common when customers have a completed 3D printed prototype but are stuck waiting 4-5 months for tooling to come in for injection molding.
If you need to fill a gap between rapid prototyping and mass production, you could rely on CNC machining, silicone molds, or soft tooling in the interim. But these solutions can be time-consuming and expensive. You’ll probably need up to 10,000 units to justify the cost.
Instead, consider relying on 3D printing for an innovative solution known as bridge manufacturing.
As its name suggests, bridge manufacturing (also known as bridge production) provides a “bridge” between prototyping and mass production. This low-volume manufacturing solution is ideal if you want to:
Is Bridge Manufacturing the Right Solution for You?
If you’re interested in bridge manufacturing, the industrial 3D printing experts at Re3DTech can help you determine if it’s the right solution for you.
We’ll want to understand more about your application, properties, and timeline. We’ll also
As a customer-focused company, we’ll never recommend a solution that isn’t in your best interest.
If there’s little value for you in coming to market faster, receiving feedback from customers, and getting ahead of the competition, bridge manufacturing probably isn’t necessary. But if getting products into your customers’ hands in 4 weeks instead of 3 months can give you the edge you need, bridge manufacturing can be incredibly valuable.
Contact us today and let’s discuss your manufacturing needs!
At Re3dTech, we believe that 3D printing will repatriate and revitalize our manufacturing industry – and is the future of American manufacturing! RE3DTECH provides 3D printing and contract manufacturing services with a commitment to quality, speed, and customer service. We supply thousands of parts to customers every week in industries including Healthcare, Automotive, and Aerospace. It is our mission to provide a custom solution to our customers’ needs.
Leveraging our production additive manufacturing technologies, we have the in-house expertise and capabilities to help lead your company down the path of additive. Take advantage of the advances in 3D printing to improve your manufacturing - contact us today to see how we can help!