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ApplicationsSpare & obsolete parts
Replacement and obsolete spare parts
When the maker stops supplying a part, the machine around it usually still works. We scan the original, rebuild it as clean CAD and print it, then print the next one when somebody needs it.
What it is
Discontinued parts scanned from the original and printed back.
We scan the broken or worn original, then reverse engineer it into a parametric CAD model with the damage taken out. We print it, usually in PA12 nylon on HP Multi Jet Fusion. Once the model exists, another part is just another print, so nothing has to sit in a warehouse.
Some replacement parts qualify for Scan-to-Part. Where a component is discontinued or impossible to source, while other people are likely to need the same one, we cover the scanning and engineering. You pay only for the part.
Why print it
What additive changes about this job, against machining, moulding and waiting.
- 01
No mould to keep
Storing parts and keeping moulds for discontinued products is expensive. Printing makes them to order from a digital file.
- 02
No data needed
Parts with no 3D data are scanned and re-manufactured by 3D printing.
- 03
Better than the worn original
Reverse engineering works out the design intent, so the model is right even where the part is not.
- 04
The next one is just a print
Once the model exists, another part is printed when it is needed rather than held in stock.
What it is printed in
Materials whose makers list this job, from our library. Compare the resins we sell online
Work we have done
Photographed in our own lab, with the machine that did it.
Questions we get asked
Something else? Ring 0330 229 0175 and an engineer will answer it.
Will you reverse engineer my part for free?
Some replacement-part projects qualify. If the part is discontinued, obsolete or impossible to source, while other people are likely to need the same one, Scan-to-Part covers the scanning and reverse engineering. You pay for the manufactured part. Other jobs are quoted the normal way.
Do I get the CAD or scan files?
Not under Scan-to-Part: the CAD, mesh and scan data stay with 3D Printworx. If you need the data, it is quoted as normal reverse engineering.
Which parts will not qualify?
Genuine one-offs with no wider demand, parts that are easy and cheap to buy, or parts too complex to develop or test. Safety-critical parts such as braking, steering, lifting, pressure or load-bearing parts. Anything where design, trademark or reproduction rights are in doubt.
What formats can a reverse-engineered model be exported as?
IGES, STEP, Parasolid and CATIA, with parametric models transferable with their full history.
Related applications
All applications
Send us the part
Upload a STEP or STL to the instant quote and the price is on screen straight away. No file, or not sure of the process? Send the object itself, or ring, and an engineer will recommend the process and material.