Thermwood and General Atomics Partner on Additive Tool with Significant Cost Savings

September 18, 2010

9.18.2020

Thermwood recently collaborated with General Atomics to produce a CNC trim tool with a significant cost savings of around $50,000 when compared to traditional methods.

The Details
Using a Thermwood LSAM 10’x20′, the tool was printed from ABS (20% Carbon Fiber Filled) in 16 hours. Total machining time was 32 hours. The final part weighed 1,190 lbs, and represented a cost savings of around $50,000 when compared to traditional methods. Total lead time for the part decreased from 6-8 weeks to less than 2 weeks by utilizing the powerful LSAM system.

The Results
This cost and time savings breaks down to:
Cost reduction: 2-3x
Faster development: 3-4x

Final Product
A production capable tool

Vacuum Integrity
Vacuum integrity without the need for coatings

Final Result
A tool that is suitable for large, deep 3D geometries, backup structures and vacuum piping

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