ANiMAke: Your On-Demand Manufacturing Partner

It’s already known that the ability to produce custom tools and components swiftly and accurately is essential. At ANiMA, via ANiMAke, we specialize in delivering high-quality jigs, fixtures, and other essential parts using advanced additive manufacturing technologies. Our expertise spans several 3D printing technologies, each suited to specific applications and requirements.

Selective Laser Melting (SLM): High-Strength Metal Components for Demanding Applications

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is an additive manufacturing process that employs a high-powered laser to fuse metallic powders into fully dense, complex metal parts. This technology is ideal for producing durable, high-strength components with intricate geometries that would be challenging or impossible to create using traditional manufacturing methods.

In practical terms, SLM is perfect for creating custom metal jigs and fixtures that must withstand high mechanical stresses or thermal loads. For example, a custom SLM-printed clamping fixture made from stainless steel can maintain its structural integrity under continuous use in a high-temperature environment, ensuring consistent production quality and reducing downtime.

Left Image: Steel gears for the transmission of torque. Right Image: Impeller manufactured from AlSi10Mg.

Another application involves the production of heat-resistant tooling for forming operations. Using SLM, we can fabricate tools with internal cooling channels, optimizing thermal management during the forming process and extending tool life.

Beyond these applications, SLM is widely utilized in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and medical sectors. In the automotive industry, SLM enables rapid prototyping of new components and tooling, streamlining the design and manufacturing process. In aerospace, SLM excels in producing intricate components that were previously unattainable through traditional manufacturing, facilitating quick iterations and testing of design concepts. In the medical field, SLM is employed to create biocompatible implants and prosthetics, ensuring durability and compatibility with the human body, as well as orthodontic implants and crowns.

Stereolithography (SLA): High-Resolution Prototypes and Precision Tools

Stereolithography (SLA) employs a UV laser to cure liquid resin layer by layer, producing parts with exceptional surface finish and fine detail. This technology is particularly suited for applications requiring high precision and smooth surfaces, such as detailed prototypes or intricate fixtures.

Left Image: Translucent resin topologically optimized bracket. Right Image: Painted resin prototype for consumer products.

For instance, SLA can be used to create custom drill guides with tight tolerances, ensuring accurate hole placement during assembly processes. The smooth surface finish of SLA-printed parts reduces friction and wear, making them ideal for applications where precision and repeatability are critical.

Additionally, SLA is effective for producing surrogate parts used in testing assembly lines before the final components are available. These high-fidelity models allow for early detection of design issues, facilitating timely adjustments and reducing the risk of costly errors during full-scale production.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): Durable and Functional Polymer Components

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) utilizes a laser to sinter powdered polymer materials, creating strong, functional parts without the need for support structures. This technology is well-suited for producing durable jigs, fixtures, and other components that require complex geometries and robust mechanical properties.

Left Image: PA11 motorcycle engine cover. Right Image: PA11 functional parts for aluminum systems and consumer products.

A practical example of the application of SLS is the production of custom collet pads for CNC turning machines. These pads, which act as intermediaries between the machine and the workpiece, can be quickly designed and printed to accommodate various product geometries, enhancing flexibility and reducing setup times.

Furthermore, SLS is advantageous for creating assembly jigs that must endure repetitive use and exposure to industrial environments. The resulting parts exhibit excellent chemical resistance and dimensional stability, ensuring consistent performance over extended periods.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): Cost-Effective Solutions for Everyday Needs

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a widely used 3D printing technology that extrudes thermoplastic filaments to build parts layer by layer. It offers a cost-effective solution for producing jigs, fixtures, and other tools required for daily manufacturing tasks.

Left Image: PLA production of multi-part assembly figurines. Right: PETG card holder bracket.

One of the key strengths of FDM lies in its adaptability to various material properties, allowing for the selection of thermoplastics that best suit specific application requirements. This versatility enables the production of tools and components that meet diverse functional needs, such as strength, flexibility, or chemical resistance. By choosing the appropriate material, manufacturers can ensure optimal performance and durability of the printed parts.

FDM technology finds applications across a broad spectrum of manufacturing needs. Common uses include the creation of assembly jigs that facilitate precise component placement, fixtures that hold parts securely during machining or inspection, and ergonomic hand tools designed for specific tasks. Additionally, FDM is employed in producing custom end-effectors for robotic arms, protective covers for sensitive equipment, and organizational aids like kitting trays. The ability to rapidly design and produce these tools not only accelerates the production process but also allows for quick iterations and adjustments, enhancing overall manufacturing efficiency.

Integrating Advanced Manufacturing into Your Workflow

At ANiMAke, we understand that each manufacturing environment has unique requirements. Our expertise in various additive manufacturing technologies allows us to provide tailored solutions that enhance your production capabilities.

By incorporating additive manufacturing into your workflow, you can achieve greater flexibility, reduce lead times, and respond swiftly to changing demands. Whether you need a single prototype or a batch of custom fixtures, our team is equipped to deliver high-quality parts that meet your specifications.

Explore our services and discover how ANiMAke can support your manufacturing needs by visiting our ANiMAke Order Tool.