Markforged Enables Distributed Manufacturing
Markforged’s Digital Source program is ushering in a transformative era in manufacturing. This innovative platform allows businesses globally to print OEM certified parts on their printers, streamlining production and inventory processes. Markforged Enables Distributed Manufacturing
Want to get OEM-certified parts quickly and easily? Digital Source enables 3D printing of OEM-certified parts when and where they’re needed, without the cost or hassle of physical inventory. Vendors upload digital part designs to a digital warehouse, where they can sell print licenses to customers, distributors, and contract manufacturers. Digital Source users can purchase a license to 3D print parts themselves, or can access a network of vetted print services providers to 3D print parts on their behalf. Markforged is delivering on their promise of digital warehousing by integrating 3D printing software, materials and hardware with end-to-end process control. Vendors can specify and lock printing process requirements so that customers get manufacturer-certified parts on demand. Robust security safeguards digital part files, and encrypted print instructions are sent directly to printers to protect designs, allowing customers to just “Press Print”. Once in Source, always in stock.
Pioneering Partner
BMF GmbH, a vendor on Digital Source, is a highly-specialized manufacturer of complex sand blasting machines with over 200 installations worldwide, each featuring 60 printed components. These components are typically replaced every three to four months when the machines are running at full capacity.
“We needed a significant amount of storage capacity to be able to stock all the spare parts, and often, the extended delivery time is linked to the customer’s ordering process, as the administrative procedures frequently take too long, when BMF ships the spare parts on the same day,” explains Ronny Bernstein, CEO of BMF GmbH. “Via Digital Source, the component can be printed on-site the moment a failure or wear is detected.”
Both vendors and customers of Digital Source can benefit from reduced inventory costs and simpler replacement part operations and availability, which can increase productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Customers and service centers can print design revisions directly from Digital Source — removing the waste from the disposal of outdated parts and the risk of installing the wrong part version.
“Above all is uptime for our customers. The machine must run and the customer must be able to continue producing. Now the majority of advanced composite parts are printed directly at the customer location, which not only brings down the time it takes to receive the part, but also brings shipping costs and CO2 emissions down, which is on all companies’ minds more than ever before,” adds Bernstein.
In summary, Markforged’s Digital Source program is revolutionizing manufacturing. By enabling on-site, on-demand parts printing, it promises greater efficiency and sustainability, as showcased by BMF GmbH’s experience.
