Ohio has long been known for its manufacturing roots, but the state’s growing applications for 3D/additive manufacturing are quickly becoming a natural extension of the state’s existing manufacturing base. The additive manufacturing process results from the addition of many ultrathin layers of plastic, steel or other materials, allowing concepts to move quickly from design and prototype to production.

Additive manufacturing offers the ability for one-off or short-run production and the process makes fast prototyping possible courtesy of a digital model. Using the build-up of accumulated layers as the building blocks for the 3D models, the manufacturing method continues to show its versatility with a range of applications for consumers and those in the medical, aerospace, automotive and industrial industries. One unique application in the medical industry is the use of MRI scans to create a skull patch for people who experience a head injury. The missing piece is able to be custom manufactured and as a result, surgery time can be reduced by up to 30 percent.

State, Regional, National and International Applications

The success experienced in Ohio is also expanding throughout the U.S. and beyond. At the beginning of the month UPS, the world’s largest package delivery provider, opened a 3D printing facility in 100 locations in six U.S. markets. Designed for the demands of small business customers, the business can make one-of-a-kind items, custom accessories, and complex parts.

The application of 3D printing is one of the major components of what’s being called Industry 4.0 by manufacturers in Germany, Japan and the U.S. Considering the innovations that took place in Industry 1.0 (steam power), Industry 2.0 (electricity), and Industry 3.0 (automation), there’s no telling what might happen with the integration of sensors and additive manufacturing in the newest industry advancement.

The Age of Customization

Inherent in this new stage of industry is an emphasis on concentrated customization. This is something practiced each day by Walsh Manufacturing. For more than 50 years we’ve applied a problem-solving approach around the use of standard items. This practice helps to lower costs and ensure that future repair and maintenance are free of hassle. When you work with the manufacturers at Walsh, you’ll receive the benefits of more than five decades of knowledge, experience, and engineering skills.

Industries Served by Walsh Manufacturing

Fastener Industry – packaging equipment, feed hoppers, furnace feeding systems

Stamping Industry – cleaning using burners, recirculating heat, immediate blow-off and solution carry-over

Die Casting Industry – walking beam and power and free parts transfer

Automotive industry: cleaning for large and small components

Consumer Products industry: rebuilding and prototyping

Municipalities: component fabrication for vehicles and road equipment

Walsh Manufacturing is a Cleveland, Ohio-based manufacturing company with five decades of experience in machine design and metal fabrication. Over this time, we’ve built a reputation as a diversified manufacturer of machined components, subassemblies, alloy material, fabricated steel and machinery. If you’re looking for a cost-competitive, innovative, and reliable supplier with expertise in Parts Washing Systems, Automation Equipment, Metal Fabrication and Machinery Rebuilding, look no farther than Walsh Manufacturing.