Master Drilling chose 3D printing after exploring a number of alternative manufacturing methods to produce the parts they needed in order to keep crucial machinery up and running. The switch to 3D printing cut their lead time for replacement parts from about three months for off-shore castings, to just three weeks with 3D printing on-site, thereby reducing downtime for the earth drilling equipment.

• Size (mm): 118 x 118 x 118
• Cost to print: $658.00
• Cost to machine: $916.00
• Cost reduction: 28.17%

• Bound Metal Deposition™

The complex geometry of end effectors requires extensive CNC machining, resulting in long lead times that occupy valuable CNC capacity. Metal 3D printing offers the possibility for on-demand manufacturing of custom end-effectors while lowering part cost and lead time.

• Size (mm): 55 x 32 x 16
• Cost to print: $23.00
• Cost to machine: $194.00
• Cost reduction: 88.14%

• Bound Metal Deposition™

This support is designed to carry a heavy load and withstand punishment. Engineers working on a bot used on a Discovery Channel program BattleBots had less than a month to produce a custom structural element on a robotic arm. Using the Studio System™, they were able to print a bracket capable of resisting bending and lateral motion while providing the stiffness, strength, weldability and fire resistance required.

• Size (mm): 130 x 117 x 64
• Cost to print: $106.00
• Cost to machine: $551.90
• Cost reduction: 81.00%

• Bound Metal Deposition™

The fixture must be regularly replaced as it wears out. Printing the part with the Studio System eliminates CNC lead time and frees up the machine shop for more critical work.

• Size (mm): 47 x 28 x 15
• Cost to print: $14.00

• Bound Metal Deposition™