AM Jigs/Templates offer a transformative approach to tooling in manufacturing. By harnessing the unique capabilities of additive manufacturing, industries can achieve greater flexibility, reduced lead times, and enhanced customization in their tooling solutions, leading to improved efficiency and quality in production processes. Some examples include:
AM Assembly Jigs/Templates: A custom jig for assembling a multi-component electronic device can be tailored to fit connectors and cables perfectly, reducing errors and assembly time.
AM Inspection Jigs/Templates: AM-produced inspection templates can incorporate tactile or visual indicators, making the inspection process faster and more intuitive. For example, a template for inspecting a machined part might include slots or holes that precisely match the desired dimensions, ensuring a quick visual or tactile check of part conformity.
AM Drilling Jigs/Templates: A 3D-printed jig for drilling can be designed with built-in channels for coolant or integrated clamping mechanisms. This means when drilling a metal part, the coolant can be efficiently directed to the drill bit, reducing wear and ensuring precise, clean holes.
AM Welding Jigs/Templates: AM can produce welding jigs with built-in heat-resistant features or channels for shielding gases. For a TIG welding process, a custom jig could be designed to perfectly fit the parts to be welded, ensuring consistent alignment, while also allowing for efficient gas flow to protect the weld area.