Borealis: 3D metal printing meets spare parts challenges

When spare parts are difficult or even impossible to obtain, 3D printing can be an excellent solution. Borealis approached this challenge with 3D Formtech using reverse engineering, which involves creating a digital 3D model of the pre-existing part to be replaced in order to 3D print a new, even more durable part.

“3D printing is starting to play a significant role in Finnish industry – and no wonder. It helps companies achieve cost savings, improve efficiency and production rate, create better and more functional parts, produce sustainably, and, in the best case, offer competitive advantages. Companies become more self-sufficient as parts can be ordered locally in a few days, while digital spare parts ensure that millions are not tied to warehouse shelves”, says Toni Järvitalo, CEO of 3D Formtech.

What is 3D printing with SLS? What is DMLS? Today, 3D printing is used in almost all sectors, including automotive, aerospace, marine, textiles, jewellery, construction, pharmaceuticals, metal, and engineering. How does industrial 3D printing differ from 3D printing at home? Is it worth printing the parts yourself or choosing a partner? In this blog post, we take a moment to go back to the basics!

There is far too little talk about post-treatment of 3D prints. However, it not only makes the part or product better, it also helps it stand out from the competition in the market. As 3D printing is increasingly used in many companies, a basic level is no longer sufficient. As more and more printed parts are used as end products, their appearance, durability and features are becoming increasingly important. In this blog, we give you three reasons why you should use post-treatment.

The jump from traditional production methods to 3D printing metal is not a big one. Why and how to take that jump? Read more!

A successful designing stage is paramount in metal additive manufacturing. It is estimated that up to 30–40% of the entire 3D printing process of a metal component takes place before the actual production stage.

Industrial metal 3D printing that meets the needs of companies places certain demands on equipment and production quality. In this blog, we review the criteria and why companies planning to start additive manufacturing should consider them.

In 2018, we announced that we would start metal additive manufacturing. The innovation opened up completely new opportunities for the Finnish engineering industry. Our new blog series now takes a thorough look at these opportunities and their foundations.

Is 3D printing suitable for serial production? Is a 3D printed metal component durable? What types of metals can be 3D printed? 3D printing metal: answers to the most common questions