Penta Patterns accelerates workflow with Stratasys 3D printer

Penta Patterns, a leading manufacturer of patterns and moulds for a diverse range of sectors, such as motorsport, automotive, and art, has achieved significant strides by transitioning from conventional CNC machining to state-of-the-art Stratasys 3D printing technology for certain operations.

This transformation, since installing the Stratasys J55 3D printer has enabled the Leicestershire-based manufacturer to produce high-quality prototype models significantly more rapidly than before.

Penta Patterns’ managing director Neil Walker explains: “You’re probably talking about a month to create a scale model with traditional methods. On the printer, it could be as little as four to five hours. Speed is the fundamental difference. The Stratasys printer is a phenomenal piece of kit which has significantly benefitted the business.”

The Stratasys J55 3D printer which uses PolyJet printing technology also offers the flexibility to print in various colours, resins, and materials, making it an ideal solution for Penta Patterns' diverse product offering.

Mr Walker emphasised the printer's ability to "amalgamate multiple materials into our model" as a significant advantage: “Our customers value quality over price. When they see our parts, they're happy first time round – we’re not doing any remedial work on anything.”

Looking at Penta’s processes and in particular the benefits the J55 has provided in more detail, factory manager, Kristian Winspur says: “Our core manufacturing processes remain centred around CNC machining – but I can definitely say that for certain things like prototypes, 3D printing is much more efficient.”

Neil Walker concurs: “The cost savings are also substantial. What probably costs us a couple of hundred pounds to do on the printer would likely cost us over £1,000 if we were making a scale model using traditional methods.”

With a diverse customer base ranging from sculptors and artists to automotive manufacturers, Penta Patterns is known for its bespoke functional art and patterns for bronze castings, but also for producing jigs and fixtures.

The savings extend to engineering work, where, according to Mr Winspur, creating trim and drill jigs is much faster and more efficient with the 3D printer, requiring little to no manpower.

Penta Patterns' decision to adopt 3D printing technology came after consulting with Sys Systems, a UK Platinum Partner for Stratasys products about the available options. “The exemplary support and advice we received from Sys Systems was nothing short of phenomenal and by the end of the consultation, the decision to invest in the J55 3D printer was a no-brainer," he enthuses.

“We were hesitant at first – but that was before we saw what the technology was capable of,” he recalls. “With the help of Stratasys 3D printing, Penta Patterns has successfully revolutionised its manufacturing processes, delivering higher quality products faster and at a fraction of the cost.”

Hinckley, Leicester-based Penta Patterns has been in business for more than 40 years and specialises in creating high-quality patterns and models for a variety of industries. The company provides a range of services, including design, toolmaking, and prototyping, to help clients bring their ideas to life. Penta Patterns and Models has worked with a number of well-known brands, including Aston Martin, Bentley, and Jaguar Land Rover, and has a reputation for delivering innovative solutions to complex design challenges.

Along with OGP UK (multi-sensor metrology systems), Zoller UK (tool presetters) and Vicivision (shaft measurement and quality control systems) Sys Systems is part of the Carfulan Group.

It is the UK Platinum partner for Stratasys, specialising in 3D printing solutions for a range of industries, including engineering, manufacturing, and healthcare. The company provides a range of services, including 3D printing equipment sales, installation, and maintenance, as well as training and consultancy services. Sys Systems works with a range of 3D printing technologies, including FDM, polyJet, P3, SAF, and SLA, and offers a variety of materials to suit various challenging applications.

Penta Patterns
www.pentapatterns.co.uk

Carfulan Group
https://carfulan.com