At Additium 3Dwe offer advanced 3D printing solutions for short and medium batches that meet the highest quality standards in the industry. Unlike traditional solutions, our 3D printing technology makes it possible to manufacture prototypes, functional parts and customised components with high quality finishes, ideal for industrial processes.
Differences between short runs, medium runs and mass production
When we talk about 3D printing, it is important to understand the differences between SHORT RUNS, half-rounds y mass productionEach one adapts to different manufacturing needs. Here we explain how they differ and what their advantages are:
Short runs
The SHORT RUNS in the context of 3D printing relate to productions of parts in relatively small quantitieswhich are usually below what is considered to be mass production. Generally, this type of production is used to manufacture between a few units and several tens of pieces, depending on demand and the specific project.
The SHORT RUNS are ideal for situations in which a fast and cost-effective production without resorting to the high costs and time associated with mass production. They are widely used in prototypes, limited seriesor when there is a need for customisations or quick adjustments to the design.
- Number of pieces: Refers to a production of few unitsusually between 1 and 100 pieces.
- Flexibility: Ideal for prototypes, small series or customised products. Allows for quick design changes between prints.
- Manufacturing timeFast and economical, perfect for testing designs without having to wait for long production lead times.
- costMore affordable than mass production, as it does not require expensive moulds and tooling. The cost per unit is higher than in mass production, but remains competitive compared to traditional manufacturing.
- Typical use: Prototypes, limited seriesThe products can be used as proof of concept or products with customised features.
Half rounds
The half-rounds 3D printing involves the production of a larger number of parts than short runs, but even fewer than mass production. Generally, this type of production involves quantities ranging from tens to a few hundred unitsdepending on demand and the project.
Medium batches are ideal for projects that require a reasonable quantity of parts in a relatively short timebut without compromising product quality. In addition, customisation possibilities remain an advantage, as there is no reliance on expensive tooling or time-consuming processes to produce parts with variations.
- Number of pieces: Ranging from 100 to 1,000 pieces.
- FlexibilityLess flexible than short runs, but still allows for design adjustments. Used for new product launches o production of specific batches with minimal variations.
- Manufacturing timeFaster than mass production, but with a longer lead time than short runs.
- CostThe cost per unit is still lower than in short runs, but higher than in mass production. It is an intermediate option for companies that need higher production without resorting to large volumes.
- Typical use: Small to medium product linesThe aim is to achieve a higher quantity without the high costs of mass production.
Mass production
Mass production with 3D printing refers to the manufacture of large quantities of parts on a continuous basis, optimised and standardised. This type of production is ideal when a high volume of parts is required, such as in the manufacture of large-scale products or industrial components that need to be constantly available.
The main advantage of mass production is its low unit cost, This makes it the most cost-effective option when very high production volumes are reached. However, it is important to bear in mind that as production volumes increase, the customisation of parts is reduced, as efficiency and standardisation in the process are prioritised.
- Number of pieces: Refers to large production volumesgenerally from 10,000 units or more.
- FlexibilityVery limited. Once the product is designed, it is not easy to make changes to the process without incurring high costs.
- Manufacturing timeSlow, due to the need to make tools, moulds and adjustments in the production line.
- CostThe cost per unit is underThe initial investment in moulds and tooling is high, and the process is very costly and time-consuming.
- Typical use: Mass production of standard or mass-market products where quantity and low unit cost are a priority.
Which one to choose?
Short runs are perfect if you need flexibility, speed, customisation or if you are launching a small-scale product.
Half rounds are ideal if you already have a validated product and need to produce a larger quantity without the high costs of mass production.
Mass production is the option for large quantities, but with a high initial cost and less flexibility to change or adapt the product.
At Additium 3Dwe help you decide which type of production is most suitable for your business, always guaranteeing quality, efficiency and competitive cost at each stage of manufacture.
Advantages of 3D printing in short and medium batches
3D printing has established itself as a key alternative for modern manufacturingespecially when it comes to limited series productions. Here we explain why our industrial 3D printing is the perfect solution for your needs:
1. Design flexibility and customisation
One of the biggest advantages of 3D printing is its ability to customise y modify designs quickly without the additional costs and time involved in traditional manufacturing. We can produce custom-made partstailored to your exact specifications, which enhances the functionality and performance of each component.
2. Reduction of costs and production times
Traditional manufacturing can be costly and time-consuming, especially in small batches. With industrial 3D printing, many of the intermediate processes are eliminated, which translates into cost reduction y production times. From design to delivery, manufacturing time is significantly shorter, allowing you to bring products to market faster.
3. High precision and industrial finishes
Our 3D printing service is at the cutting edge of technology and offers high quality finishes that meet the most demanding requirements of the industry. The parts produced have a pinpoint accuracyThis makes them perfect for applications in sectors such as automotive, aeronautics and medicine, where reliability and quality are paramount.
4. Sustainability in manufacturing
3D printing optimises resources and minimises material waste, which translates into more sustainable processes. In addition, by being able to produce only the quantities needed, overstocking and the costs associated with overproduction are avoided.
5. Rapid prototyping and design validation
Thanks to 3D printing, companies can prototyping and validating designs in record time before going into mass production. This is essential to avoid costly mistakes and to ensure that every part works correctly from the start.
Industrial Applications of 3D Printing in short and medium batches
The advantages of 3D printing are not only limited to the manufacture of individual parts, but are also ideal for small-scale productions. Some of the most common applications include:
Customised components for machinery:
With 3D printing, complex parts can be manufactured to perfectly fit the needs of any machinery.
Spare parts manufacturing:
The ability to produce small, tailor-made batches allows spare parts to be manufactured on demand, reducing lead times.
Functional prototypes:
Manufacturing functional prototypes with the same quality and materials as the final parts facilitates design validation and subsequent production.
So, print many pieces at once or one at a time?
One of the most common doubts when it comes to the use of the 3D printing for short and medium runs is whether it is better to print many pieces at once or one by one. The answer depends on several factors, such as the type of parts, the design, and the manufacturing time. Let's look at the advantages of each option:
Print many parts at once
Printing multiple parts simultaneously is an excellent option when looking to optimise production times y reduce costs. The advantages of batch printing include:
- Increased efficiencyThe 3D printing machine works continuously and efficiently, allowing multiple units to be produced in the same time it would take to produce a single part.
- Reduction of unit costsBy printing in batches, the fixed costs of printing, such as machine usage and materials, are spread across all parts, reducing the cost of each part.
- Ideal for small series productionsWhen you need to produce a moderate number of parts of the same design, simultaneous printing is a very efficient option.
Print one piece at a time
On the other hand, printing only one piece at a time may be more suitable for highly customised production or for parts with complex designs. Advantages include:
- Greater control over qualityPrinting one part at a time allows for greater control over the process, which is ideal when each part must meet very specific requirements or high quality standards.
- PersonalisationIf you need to customise each part or make adjustments to the design between each print, this option is the most flexible.
- Less risk of errorsIf only one part is printed, any possible printing faults can be corrected before starting the next part, which avoids wasting material and time.
Additium 3D Industrial 3D Printing Services
At Additium 3Dthe industrial 3D printing is not just an option, but a strategic advantage that transforms the way parts are made. We specialise in offering 3D printing solutions for short to medium runs with industrial finishes and the maximum precision:
Our experience in various sectors allows us to understand the specific needs of each client and tailor our services to provide efficient, cost-effective and sustainable solutions.
High quality and great finishes with precise details, flexibility in design, reduced production costs and material savings, speed of production and tailor-made solutions for industry.
Find out how industrial 3D printing can transform your manufacturing process!
