3D printing is about getting parts to market

With PrintIn3D director Paul Cartwright.

What printing brands and services do you specialise in?

We resold 3D Systems products until they moved out of the desktop printer marketplace. Now, we act as a distributor for Robo3D, a United States startup that has floated on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).  

When did your company first get involved in this area?

2012.

What certifications do you have that apply to printing?

We have extensive experience gained from working with 3D printers over several years and we have been in the printing industry (with copiers) since 1990. 

Which distributors do you use?

We distribute Robo3D products to resellers, and provide a retail offering as well. A couple
of resellers use the 3D printers we distribute as part of an overall solution for schools and other educational institutions. 

Have you heard about any cool or interesting developments in the printing space?

Deakin University heard about a woman who had lost an ear in a car accident several years ago and felt self-conscious as a result. They were able to use 3D printing to create a lifelike silicone ear that she could use to alleviate her concern.

Can you tell us about a recent printing deployment you have done?

We do a lot of CAD printing for some weird and wonderful cases. For example, we created a 3D print of the wing mirror of a 1960s-era car for a car enthusiast; a cover to stop fish from getting into the filter at a fish farm; and a wheel for a model train set.  

What is driving customers’ printing projects?

3D printing is all about customisation and the speed of getting parts to market. It allows businesses to print out and test a concept before going to market. Previously, they had to invest time and money in a cast that may not be right; they would then have to go through that same process again, delaying launches considerably.  

Printing is...?

3D printing is about customisation, speed of product to market and disruption.