Challenge
To continue to innovate and serve its clients’ changing technology needs, Metron Optics wanted to explore what it would take to evolve its manufacturing operations to include additive manufacturing (3D printing). The company’s interests included how to minimize risk of adoption, recommended designs for the additive process, and a solution selection for the best additive manufacturing machine options.
Solution
CMTC undertook a two-phase approach over three months. First, CMTC performed an additive manufacturing assessment to evaluate Metron Optics’ parts portfolio and determine if additive manufacturing would be a good fit. This initial work produced a technology adoption roadmap that provided input for the next phase.
Second, to validate applicability for Metron Optics’ operations, CMTC conducted a proof of concept and validation exercise. To do so, CMTC completed a test case by designing and producing a representative Metron Optics part on several additive manufacturing machines and processes.
Impact
As a result of CMTC’s consulting, Metron Optics estimates retained revenues of $150,000, enabling investments of $11,000 in new products and processes. In addition, the company estimated a cost savings of $22,500 over a 12-month period.
“A big thumbs up to CMTC and its very knowledgeable, experienced, and helpful advisors who helped us streamline our manufacturing procedures. Looking forward to our next project together.”
— Charles Kempf, CEO
