Can we use our existing box designs and dimensions?

Yes, that's no problem. You can use up any remaining outer packaging or artwork.

Are the boxes airtight?

Just like wooden boxes, 3D boxes are not 100% airtight.

Is it not necessary to use fittings on the 3D boxes?

One of the advantages of 3D boxes is that we have integrated solutions that are printed. So you save costs, weight and assembly time.

What is the expected weight saving compared to a wooden box of the same size?

Of course, this depends on the wood used so far and the wall thicknesses processed. But it is usually between 25 and up to 70%.

Can we also deliver our own designs which you can then convert into 3D boxes?

Yes, this is possible in principle. However, this requires the designer to have experience in technical design for 3D printing. In contrast to wood processing and injection molding, a large number of complex specifications have to be taken into account. However, supplying STEP data reduces our design costs and speeds up the process, as we can read and process the data.

How quickly can you create a customized box design?

Of course, this depends on the complexity of the box. But simple designs are usually possible within 24 hours.

How high are the expected cost reductions compared to a traditional wooden box?

Of course, you can never say this in general terms, because it always depends on the size, wall thicknesses and much more. However, the savings potential is usually between 30 and up to 70%. However, you also have to factor in the savings on shipping, warehousing and personnel. Not to mention the fact that you only produce what you need.

Do you need special personnel to be able to print?

No. The 3D printer is as easy to use as a coffee machine. Anyone can start printing within 30 minutes.

Is it difficult to refill materials or do you have to make certain settings?

No. Everything is really automatic. The material (filament) is on 1 kg spools. These are simply inserted into the printer or removed when they are empty. The printer automatically feeds in the material and checks everything automatically based on the information in the so-called "g-code". This is the print file, which is transmitted to the printer either via an SD card or via WiFi.

How long does a print take?

That depends on what you are printing. A small box for 3 cigars, for example, only takes 1.5 hours, large boxes more than 4 hours. We optimize the g-codes for you so that you either print only 1 part or we make use of the printing space and print as many parts as we have room for. Then you start printing at 8 a.m., for example, and at 5 p.m. you remove the products and start the next print overnight.

Does someone need to be near the printer at all times in case an error occurs?

No, the printers have a mobile app with video monitoring. You can monitor the print from your cell phone at any time, stop it if necessary and receive a notification in the event of problems or when the print is finished.

What happens if the material runs out in the middle of printing?

This cannot happen, the printers we have selected have a so-called AMS system. They have up to 4 spools of material in the printer. This is always sufficient for your print. And if one spool runs out of material, the printer switches to the next spool of suitable material. With 3D printing, you use up all your material! Nothing has to be thrown away.

Can I print with several materials or colors at the same time?

Yes, the AMS system can print up to 4 different colors or materials at the same time. If required, a maximum of 3 additional AMS systems can be connected to print up to 16 colors or materials.

What is the maximum size of the printed parts?

Depending on the printer, you have a print area of approx. 18 x 18 x 18 cm or 25 x 25 x 25 cm. If required, there are also larger printers with an installation space of 36 x 36 x 36 cm or larger.

What maintenance is required and does a service technician have to come?

As with any technical device, moving parts need to be lubricated or replaced. The printers we have selected will inform you of service measures on the input screen and show you a QR code that takes you to a service website where everything is described in detail. A service technician is not necessary.