Ultimaker establishes close cooperation with Dutch ERIKS

ERIKS is one of the most technically advanced Dutch companies. The company provides a wide range of mechanical components and provides engineering services for various industry sectors – from the space industry to the pharmaceutical or medical industry. From now on, thanks to the cooperation with Ultimaker, the company will provide its customers with services on an even wider scale, using 3D printing technology.

The offer of solutions offered by ERIKS includes many services and products – the company deals with supplying both seals and hoses as well as belt conveyors and more advanced constructions. When it comes to additive technologies, they are used comprehensively by company specialists. The company provides rapid prototyping services from polymeric materials, and at the same time uses 3D printers to create special grips and guides optimized for specific tools.

Creating a professional center of additive technologies, equipped with the latest Ultimaker devices, will allow you to increase additive production efficiency and streamline daily operations. Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle devices are equipped with HEPA filter covers and Material Station module, i.e. a device that can be loaded with any set of 6 filaments, which are automatically downloaded by a 3D printer during operation. Additional equipment not only ensures a safe working environment, but also saves time due to the lack of the need to manually change materials.

The ERIKS ranges are impressive – the company has branches in 17 countries, employs 7,500 employees and serves approximately 90,000 customers. Thanks to the newly opened center of manufacturing technologies, it is possible to respond faster to customer orders, but also more efficient production. The video published by Ultimaker (below) shows how many applications 3D printed elements can be used for. Minor changes, such as cutting guides, tool positioning stands or handles, can optimize and accelerate the performance of small operations, which will translate into workflow throughout the unit.

Managing Director of ERIKS, Sander Splinter, says that he sees the huge potential of using additive technologies in modern industry. Our own 3D printer farm allows ERIKS customers to support the design of parts faster and with much greater design freedom than when using injection molding. The company estimates that only in 2019, thanks to the implementation of solutions in the field of 3D printing technology, it was possible to save EUR 350,000. This is mainly due to the increase in the precision of work, which is associated with increased safety and reduction of possible injuries in employee positions.

The Ultimaker S5 Pro device not only guarantees the high quality and repeatability of manufactured elements, but also gives the possibility of producing parts that comply with specific industry standards. Job van de Sande, responsible for ERIKS for additive technologies, as an example recalls the possibility of 3D printing elements for the needs of companies involved in food production. The so-called ERIKS operates Clean Manufacturing Facility, i.e. clean production space, in line with European food safety regulations. The company is currently working on obtaining similar permission from the FDA.

Source: ultimaker.com