SIEMENS shortens the production time and involves customers earlier in the production process and thus realizes its strategic advantage in the market.
Steven Baker is Head of Research and Development at SIEMENS (Siemens Rail Automation). According to him, by using 3D printing, they managed to shorten the prototype production from 12 - 16 weeks to only 1 - 2 weeks.
“So we went from a 3D CAD model, through a 3D printed component to the final metal component without going through the regular manufacturing processes.” Stephen added: “This allowed us to reduce the time it took to get from the model stage to the final component stage on 1 - 2 weeks, compared to what would normally take us somewhere between 12 and 16 weeks."
They took a 3D component printed with PLA material and transferred it to a wax mold. Then, they dipped the form into the ceramic solution and left it to harden. PLA is an excellent material for this stage, because it melts completely when firing the ceramic. The result is the creation of a cavity into which the steel can be poured directly.
Jimmy McDyer is Head of Transport and Product for Asia Pacific. He states that the Siemens company stops looking only at production within the factory. It turns to looking at the entire value chain. In doing so, 3D printing allows them to involve their customers earlier in the product design process. This is also a strategic advantage of the company because it manages to speed up the placing of products on the market.
