3D printing is a rapidly growing technology that is being used in a variety of industries, including manufacturing. RiverSide Integrated Solutions (RIS) is a company that is using 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, to improve the efficiency and quality of the product assembly process.
At RIS, we use the latest 3D printing technology to create one-of-a-kind solutions for our customers’ product assembly needs. We believe that 3D printing is a powerful tool that can help our customers improve their products and processes.
BENEFITS OF 3D PRINTING
Here are some of the benefits of using 3D printing for product assembly:
Increased flexibility
3D printing allows for rapid prototyping and manufacturing of custom parts, which can help to improve product assembly efficiency and reduce costs.
Improved quality
3D printing can be used to create complex parts with tight tolerances, which can help to improve the overall quality of assembled products.
Reduced lead times
3D printing can help to reduce lead times for product assembly by eliminating the need for tooling and other traditional manufacturing processes.
Increased sustainability
3D printing can help to reduce waste and improve the sustainability of product assembly by using less material and energy than traditional manufacturing methods.
3D PRINTING SOLUTIONS AT RIS
We went to Rich Lieske, RIS’s engineering manager to get some real-life examples of how RIS is using 3D printing to make a difference in our customers’ experiences:
Custom pick-and-place trays
We used to have to go to a third-party vendor to design and manufacture custom pick-and-place trays. This process was time-consuming and expensive. Now, we can design and print our own trays in-house overnight. This has saved us a significant amount of time and money.
Custom dispensing needles
We were able to design and print a new dispensing needle for a product with large caps. The only commercially made nozzles that fit the size cap this product had was over $10, couldn’t be cleaned, was made of metal and required them to use high-pressure for dispensing due to the shape of the needle. They had to throw the needle away after every use. So one of our engineers designed their own needle with a tapered diameter which requires less pressure to dispense, and is made out of a cheap resin material. Now the company can print 50 to 100 of these needles at a time, so while they may not have been able to solve the problem of waste with this particular product, they at least solved the problem of cost.
Custom tools and machine parts
We use 3D printing to create custom tools and machine parts that can be worked into our assembly processes. This helps us to improve efficiency and quality.
Dual head 3D printing
We use dual head 3D printing to create parts with multiple materials. This allows us to create parts with the desired properties for the specific application.
If you are looking for a way to improve the efficiency, quality and sustainability of your product assembly process, 3D printing is a great option to consider. RIS can help you to implement 3D printing into your manufacturing process and achieve the desired results.
Rich concludes by saying: “It was a huge advantage for us to start 3D printing.”
About RiverSide Integrated Solutions:
RIS is an advanced contract manufacturer providing robust solutions in circuit board assembly and product assembly. We employ more than 350 people and provide services to OEMs worldwide. We operate two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities within the US.
With all of the choices in contract manufacturers out there, we know it can be challenging to find someone who understands your business model and has your best intentions in mind. RIS has always proven to be a win-win-focused relationship.
As your one-stop shop, we have the capabilities, capacity, quality assurance standards and resources to support all of your manufacturing needs. We understand that supply chain management is complex and very time-consuming, so we urge our customers to utilize us in the fullest capacity.
Our total-package solutions include:
- Dedicated Program Team
- Extensive supply-chain network for efficient parts procurement and kitting
- Subassembly and full box-build
- Warehousing and drop-shipping capabilities
- Reverse logistics
- Flexible order fulfillment
- Scalability to meet your needs
Contact us today at (507) 523-3220 to see how we can help with your manufacturing project, or click contact us for a quote.
