The use of Carbon 3D technology in the production of fishing tackle

The strength of Carbon 3D additive technology lies in its applicability for a variety of applications. Fast DLS additive technology, based on the patented CLIP method, is successfully used by companies that create both professional parts for the automotive industry and everyday products.

Now the American company FinMan Fishing Innovations, which manufactures fishing tackle, has joined the group of technology beneficiaries. Thanks to 3D printing technology, it was possible to implement the design of the element, which could not be made using standard manufacturing methods. The design of the multifunctional tool has been compared by manufacturers to a Swiss army knife, which combines high quality workmanship and the ability to use for a variety of applications.

The company has been on the market since 2019, and its pioneering project is an accessory attached to the rod, acting as a multifunctional tool that will be appreciated by every fishing fan. FinMan, because it is called this device, can simultaneously act as scissors, pliers and a knife, almost like a classic pocket knife.

How was the FinMan idea born? The creators of the project admit that the idea of creating a device resulted from their own experience – due to the fact that they could not find such a device in stores, they decided to create it themselves. It soon turned out that the production of such advanced construction (and at the same time small equipment) requires special production technology. In the case of injection molding, it was necessary to significantly simplify the design, which, unfortunately, would reduce the functionality of the element.

Refusing to compromise, the project team began to look for an alternative and turned to Gallagher Corporation, a member of the Carbon Production Network. DLS technology turned out to be a solution that met the company’s expectations, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. The FinMan construction required a production system that would allow for precise production of elements equipped with a series of protrusions, holes and textures – at the same time it must meet the requirements for strength and resistance to intensive use.

The 3D print is made of RPU 70 material, rigid polyurethane, which meets all technical requirements set by the producers. The design has been optimized before production – including roughness of some tool surfaces to improve grip quality and user comfort.

Gage Cutler, founder of FinMan Fishing Innovations, emphasizes that within a few weeks it was possible to create a number of design iterations, which would be impossible with traditional production methods. Thanks to the incremental technologies, the product was released on the market within the expected period, without any loss of its functionality or aesthetics.

The company’s founder adds that 3D printing technology also gives the opportunity to quickly respond to customer feedback and implement changes in projects. What’s more, the possibility of external production by Gallagher Corporation freed the company from the necessity of making the initial, high investment, e.g. injection mold.

By presenting a case study about FinMan, Carbon proves that their technology gives not only the possibility of creating unusual and extremely complex shapes, but also the ease of scaling production, which can be successfully adapted to the current number of orders.

Source: carbon3d.com