Why Industrial 3D Printers are Essential for Serious Manufacturing Needs
For those in manufacturing, it’s no secret that when clients demand quality, reliability and traceability, a hobbyist-grade 3D printer simply won’t cut it.
At SYS Systems, we understand that industrial 3D printers, like the Stratasys range we proudly supply across the UK and Ireland, offer businesses unparalleled capabilities that consumer models can’t compete with.
Beyond the Basics: Certification, Traceability & Compliance
Imagine a typical fabrication shop working on projects that require not just craftsmanship but also rigorous documentation. This documentation, often demanded by clients, ensures quality control, traceability and accountability every step of the way.
If your business needs to supply certification that traces materials back to their source, guarantees adherence to ISO standards and documents processes meticulously, you’ll find hobbyist 3D printers falling short.
Take a simple T-joint weld, for instance. Certifying a job like this can require up to 15 pages of documentation: from material and filler certifications to weld process and design documentation.
Now, scale that up to a larger manufacturing project and the demands for documentation and process validation increase exponentially.
Industrial 3D printers, like those from Stratasys, are designed to meet these needs head-on, allowing businesses to focus on production rather than paperwork. These machines come with comprehensive documentation for each component and material, complete with certifications that trace raw materials back to the source.
The Value of Traceability & Calibration
In many sectors, clients demand traceability throughout the entire production workflow. This includes documentation on everything from material origins to calibration results for each machine used. For a high-stakes application, you need a level of control that’s simply unattainable with consumer-grade 3D printers.
Stratasys industrial printers come with full traceability, covering material origins, calibration reports and detailed machine specifications, all readily accessible.
In regulated industries – such as aerospace or medical manufacturing – this level of traceability isn’t a nice-to-have; it’s an absolute necessity.
Stratasys machines are not only compliant but also audit-ready, with documentation support that hobbyist machines don’t come close to offering.
Performance, Reliability & Service
Industrial-grade equipment like Stratasys printers is designed for high-volume use, extreme precision and longevity. While a hobbyist printer might suffice for prototype testing or hobby-level fabrication, it’s unlikely to withstand the rigours of a full-scale manufacturing environment. And if something does go wrong, industrial printers are backed by extensive warranties and customer support, with fast repairs and minimal downtime.
When you invest in an industrial printer, you’re buying reliability. The ongoing support, maintenance and training offered by Stratasys and SYS Systems mean you’ll always have backup when you need it most – something you won’t find with hobbyist machines.
True Cost of Ownership
Hobbyist 3D printers are often praised for their affordability. However, when you factor in downtime, repairs and lack of certification, the savings quickly disappear for serious businesses. For example, a hobbyist printer might only cost a few hundred pounds, but without the necessary documentation and performance consistency, it’s unlikely to pass any form of audit.
On the other hand, industrial printers, while pricier upfront, offer the assurance that every component, material and process has undergone rigorous testing and validation. For businesses, this means fewer disruptions, more satisfied clients and greater long-term savings.
Scaling Your Operations with Confidence
If you’re a medium-to-large company looking to add 3D printing to your services, it’s crucial to start with the right tools.
For businesses without prior experience in 3D printing or related manufacturing methods, a Stratasys industrial printer provides a proven foundation. Not only do these systems ensure compliance, but they also come with comprehensive training, documentation and support.
At SYS Systems, we work closely with businesses across the UK and Ireland to ensure they’re equipped with the right 3D printing solutions for their needs.
Our Stratasys printers are tailored for companies that demand high performance, precision, and documentation to support strict client and industry requirements.
Choose Industrial for Serious Results
Industrial-grade 3D printing is about delivering serious results for serious clients.
At SYS Systems, we’re here to support companies looking to make a long-term investment in quality and compliance. With Stratasys 3D printers, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your equipment is ready to meet the highest standards.
Ready to take your production to the next level? Reach out to SYS Systems today to discuss how industrial 3D printing can benefit your business and help you meet the rigorous demands of your industry.
