ALD Design & Print

Company

Director Alistair Lofthouse of ALD Design & Print is always striving to be at the forefront of technology, from traditional printing to cutting edge 3D printing. Alistair’s company offers a series of 3D printed locomotive kits for the avid locomotive enthusiast to build and enjoy.

Industry

Design / Engineering (3D Printed Components)

Challenge

Alistair previously used the Ultimaker 2+ for the creation of his unique superb quality locomotive model kits. Using the latest 3D printing technology and his own CAD Design he can produce these models in a variety of sizes: N, OO, O and Gauge 1. He is currently working on producing a 5 inch gauge version which will be incorporating a Maxitrack ready to run chassis.

Because of the tiny size of some of the prototypes, the intention is to include a 3D printed steel chassis to provide plenty of essential weight and ensure the model can shunt wagons as well as the real thing. ALD Print is working on the popular Ruston 48DS in 7mm scale.

Solution

An upgrade to the Ultimaker S3 delivers high-quality, composite-ready performance‚ all efficiently from your desktop. Packed with the latest technology, it is as easy to use as it is powerful. The Ultimaker S3 is the only printer you need for professional, multi-material prints.

“The upgrade to the S3 from the 2+ has been a great improvement for us. In my opinion it’s the difference between a hobbyist machine to a professional production machine.” Director Alistair Lofthouse

Results

The Ultimaker S3 delivers excellent print quality and reliable dual extrusion printing.

‘ALD Design & Print’ found the quality of the 3D printing to be simply outstanding and a solid testament to the Ultimaker S3 and design software that Alistair is using. It certainly gives impetus to the model makers out there who have been searching for a way of recreating their favourite vehicles in miniature.

Which Ultimaker is for you?

The Ultimaker family has many models, and we want to help make sure you get the right 3D printer for your application. When investing in Ultimaker you are getting an entire 3D printing system that’s designed to drive in-house progress and innovation. The product line includes the Ultimaker 2+ Connect, Ultimaker S3, Ultimaker S5 and the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle. Before you choose, you should define your printing needs. This included analysing your print requirements, choosing the right materials, determining what software you require, what additional hardware is needed and the level of support required to ensure uptime. At 3DGBIRE we will provide you with training, periodic maintenance, and a quick solution in case of malfunctions.

About Ultimaker

Since 2011, Ultimaker has built an open and easy-to-use solution of 3D printers, software, and materials that enable professional designers and engineers to innovate every day. Ultimaker is the market leader in desktop 3D printing. From offices in the Netherlands, New York, Boston, and Singapore - plus production facilities in Europe and the US - its global team of over 400 employees work together to accelerate the world’s transition to local, digital manufacturing.

About 3DGBIRE

3DGBIRE are the UK and Ireland’s premium professional 3D printing experts, supplying printers, service, support, training and other market-leading products within the 3D printing industry. We are focused on helping businesses integrate 3D printing into their workflow with the intention of reducing production costs, supporting manufacturing innovation and reducing lead times. For all your technical support or warranty questions, please reach out and we will be happy to assist.

T: 01257 228 411 E: sales@3dgbire.com