Graco Inc. supplies technology and expertise for the management of fluids and coatings in both industrial and commercial manufacturing applications. Graco Inc. designs, manufactures and markets - systems and equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray fluid and powder materials.
Paint sprayers on Graco’s assembly line require pressure control checks. The hand tool to adjust the pressure incorporates splines to engage and turn the control knob. However, the splines on the existing ABS plastic tool typically wear out after repeated use. This requires the manufacture of new tools regularly. The desired solution was an easily fabricated new tool with extended life that did not have to be machined.
With the acquisition of a new F370®CR composite 3D printer, Graco engineers opted to print the tool using FDM® Nylon-CF10 thermoplastic. This material is filled 10% by weight with chopped carbon fiber, providing it with greater strength and toughness than ABS.
Overall, 3D printing the hand tool resulted in a more cost-effective solution and provided greater design freedom. It allowed for a faster and easier production of an ergonomic handle compared to the traditional machined alternative.
Download the case study and discover how Graco printed an ergonomic handle faster & easier with the Stratasys F370®CR composite 3D printer and FDM® Nylon-CF10 thermoplastic.
