Tenco DDM is service provider in Additive Manufacturing, offering DLP, SLS, MJF, SLA, and FDM services and specialised in series production.<\/p>\n
We are dedicated to bringing real value to your operations by finding meaningful applications for Additive Manufacturing. Our experience in series production gives us the edge to define proper applications which are both technically and economically feasible.<\/p>\n
Tenco was the first in Europe to run Direct Light Processing for series production, collaboration companies such as Henkel in development of materials for industrial use.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Despite being primarily used for (rapid) prototyping today, Additive Manufacturing holds significant potential for the production of end-use parts. The key to integrating 3D printing in production, is identifying and addressing the gaps left by conventional manufacturing processes, and exploring how Additive Manufacturing can complement and enhance existing production methods.<\/span><\/p>\n Better products through ‘freedom of design’<\/b><\/p>\n Additive manufacturing enables the production of complex shapes and internal features without the constraints of traditional manufacturing methods. This is often an underestimated advantage of AM, as it offers substantial opportunities for improving product performance and functionality.<\/p>\n Consider, for example, the potential for weight reduction through the use of internal lattice structures or optimised topologies, or the simplification of assembly by consolidating multiple components into a single 3D printed part.<\/p>\n Additive manufacturing also allows for the integration of advanced features, such as internal cooling channels for improved fluid flow or flexible, functional elements like living hinges.<\/p>\n Material Efficiency<\/b><\/p>\n In 3D printing, material is deposited only where needed, this creates significantly less waste in comparison to subtractive manufacturing methods.<\/p>\n Reduced Lead Times<\/b><\/p>\n Shorter production cycles from design to finished part enable faster turnaround times and efficient manufacturing of end-use components in series.<\/p>\n Cost-Efficiency for Small Batches<\/b><\/p>\n Traditional manufacturing methods require costly moulds, tooling, or time-intensive machine setups. Additive manufacturing does not, making it economically viable for low-volume production. Additional cost savings can be achieved through build-to-order AM strategies, reduced inventory requirements, local sourcing, risk mitigation, and lower development costs.<\/p>\n (Mass) Customisation<\/b><\/p>\n 3D printing makes it much easier to produce customised or personalised parts that meet specific customer requirements. Examples include hearing aid housings, glasses frames, insoles, and orthotic devices.<\/p>\n Additive Manufacturing is the only process that truly meets the definition of Direct Digital Manufacturing, enabling the direct production (3D printing) of end-use parts from a CAD file. Although AM allows for direct part production, prototyping remains essential to mitigate risks and to support the ongoing development of a part throughout its lifecycle.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Additive Manufacturing is used across a wide range of industries, including aerospace, semiconductors, medical equipment, machinery, electronics, and implantable medical devices, many of which are High-Complexity\/Low-Volume markets.<\/p>\n A common pitfall when introducing Additive Manufacturing is approaching it from a technology-first mindset. Starting with the technique tends to narrow the focus to its limitations rather than encouraging a broader view of product development or innovation through AM.<\/p>\n Instead, one should start from the user or application perspective. In other words, begin with why (the application), and arrive at what (the technology).<\/p>\n In between lies the how – the process of aligning the application\u2019s requirements with the relevant benefits of AM. Every unique application comes with specific needs and requires careful consideration to determine whether or not Additive Manufacturing is the right solution.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>Applications for AM Additive Manufacturing<\/h3>\n