Printing Innovation Asia Issue 11 2020
60
Digitalising and 3D printing manufacturing anywhere an The digitalisation of spare parts is a step towards more sustainable business and reducing the carbon footprint of industry. It also reduces costs and improves the availability of spare parts with quicker access. VTT and Aalto University have been conducting first-class research for five years now to promote digitalising and 3D printing spare parts.
make use of additive manufacturing, says Tero Hämeenaho, Department Manager responsible for 3D printing at Etteplan.
- We had two extensive research projects where we solved problems related to the introduction of digital spare parts and developed different tools and operating models while working closely with the companies involved in the projects. Many companies have already had successful trials of 3D printing spare parts, and in the next phase, the aim is a wider implementation of digital spare parts, says Senior Scientist Sini Metsä-Kortelainen from VTT.
Digitalisation of spare parts has significant benefits Companies that manufacture machinery and equipment are becoming more interested in the digitalisation of spare parts: maintenance services make up a significant part of the business of these companies and spare parts tie up a lot of capital. Companies are particularly facing issues with old equipment that no longer have spare parts available, but repairing them is the sustainable choice both economically and environmentally.
- The new business from digital spare parts project by VTT and Aalto University is a great example of Finnish research on 3D printing. Companies have huge potential to grow and improve their maintenance business with 3D printing. In the recently completed research project, we identified new ways for industry to
- Since based on digital data, 3D printing makes it possible to produce individual parts or small series quickly and cost-effectively, as there is no need for separate tools such as moulds. Storing digital spare parts does not take up shelf space, and manufacturing can
be carried out according to need and close to the end user. The availability of spare parts is improved, transport distances are shorter, and natural
