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Independent metal AM

Are you ready to own a metal 3D printer?

A calculator can say the economics look promising while the organization is still missing people, facility, quality or post-processing plans. Check the planning gaps separately.

Before you buy a machine

Make sure the printer is not the only thing you have priced.

All-in machine quote
Installation and training
Service and warranty
Powder / feedstock handling
Gas, power and facility needs
Post-processing access
Inspection and quality plan
People and training
Representative part validation

A promising machine spec is only the start. Confirm the complete route to a finished, accepted part.

1. Repeat demand

Do you have repeatable demand or a credible production forecast?

2. Machine and service quotes

Do you have a current delivered machine quote and service information?

3. Process and material path

Do you know which process/material combination you intend to qualify?

4. People and training

Have you identified who will operate, engineer and support the process?

5. Facility readiness

Have you checked the machine, utilities, ventilation, fire/safety and space requirements with responsible experts?

6. Feedstock handling

Do you have a plan for powder, wire or bound-feedstock receipt, storage, handling and waste as applicable?

7. Post-processing access

Do you know who will heat treat, machine, finish and otherwise complete the part?

8. Inspection / quality plan

Do you know how the finished part will be inspected and accepted?

9. Service and support

Have you confirmed local service, consumables, software and supplier support?

10. Economic business case

Have you compared the full ownership case with outsourcing using your own quotes?