Providing Clarity to Packaging Companies with 3D Printing
The packaging industry has primarily been dependent on traditional manufacturing processes, like injection molding and thermo-forming.
However, these technologies require high volumes of products to be produced in order to justify the associated cost. This presents a problem early on in the development process when engineers need to develop prototypes, and utilize small batches to configure production lines. Not only does this stifle innovation in packaging design, but it leads to longer development cycles and higher costs.
Our service bureau partner, ProtoCAM, is challenging the status quo in the packaging industry by harnessing LOCTITE IND405 Clear, certificated for Carbon printers.
With this material, ProtoCAM is able to create prototypes that are stronger, more durable, and provide superior UV resistance over other 3D printing solutions, such as SLA parts. When ProtoCAM experimented with SLA packaging prototypes, they found it took 32 hours to print a sample. With LOCTITE IND405 Clear certified for Carbon printers, they were able to print the samples in 6 hours, a savings of 75%.
The Challenge
Traditionally, the packaging industry has use time-tested technologies like injection-molding and thermo-forming. The high costs associated with these processes means companies need to order at a higher production scales to minimize cost per piece. This methodology limits innovation and design freedom within the field, and does not fill the need for small batch production.
The Solution
Using a Carbon M2 3D printer and LOCTITE IND405 Clear, our service bureau partner ProtoCAM can create packaging prototypes faster than possible with other 3D printing technologies, such as SLA. Carbon’s continuous liquid interface technology allows parts to be created faster in various batch sizes, while LOCTITE IND405 Clear provided durability and good elongation in a clear material.
Benefits
Printing time reduced from 32 hours down to just 6 hours, a saving for 75%
Outstanding clarity that can be enhanced with advanced finishing techniques
Superior UV resistance compared to other clear materials on the market
