Polymer 3D Printing Is Revolutionizing the Production of Tooling Fixtures

Recent developments in additive manufacturing with high-performance polymers, particularly when it comes to improved dimensional accuracy and surface quality, are enabling the adoption of this technology for the production of more durable tools. Indeed, AM is now making it possible to reduce lead times, labor and costs for tooling as compared to machining.

Major companies in industries like automotive and aerospace—such as Ford and Moog Aircraft Group, among others—have recognized this. As have smaller businesses like machine shops, which are increasingly using technology in their production processes. Today, we are sharing real examples of companies that have chosen the technology from additive manufacturing leader Stratasys to make tooling fixtures faster and at a lower cost. We took a closer look to understand how 3D printing can help solve common tooling challenges and how these companies are already using the technology and seeing its benefits.

East/West Industries prints metal forming dies using the Fortus 450 3D printer and Nylon 12CF, achieving 80% cost savings and a production time of 1 week, compared to 8 weeks for machining.

The Main Challenges of Tooling and How AM Can Overcome Them

Traditional machining methods for creating tooling fixtures, for example milling, welding or assembly, are well-established but often slow, costly and limited. Common challenges include shortages of skilled labor (particularly CNC operators), long lead times, high costs (especially for low runs or custom tooling), design constraints and issues related to inventory management. In all these cases, which can stop or slow production, the interest of companies is to find more agile and efficient solutions. This is where additive manufacturing comes in.