Análise da utilização do processo de manufatura aditiva por meio de impressão 3D na manutenção industrial

Abstract

For a long time, maintenance was considered a necessary evil in the reality of industries, with simplified and general attributions, without specialization in the management of the maintenance process in order to achieve the best performance from the machinery, preventing a process from being burdened by machine downtime. This paper presents a detailed analysis of the use of additive manufacturing, with a focus on 3D printing, as a solution for industrial maintenance, specifically in scenarios where damaged or worn parts need to be replaced. The research investigates how dependence on external suppliers can result in delays, lack of quality control and increased operating costs. In this context, 3D printing offers an alternative strategy, enabling the production of parts on demand, customized to meet the specific needs of industrial equipment. The study highlights 3D printing as an efficient alternative, capable of producing parts with complex geometries that meet the specific requirements of the equipment. With 3D printing, it is possible to reduce dependence on external suppliers and machine downtime, improving the performance and competitiveness of industries. The research includes a technical visit, an evaluation of an in-house additive and extractive manufacturing system with a relationship between costs, investments, performance and results, highlighting the advantages and possible challenges in implementing this technology. The analysis carried out in this study shows how an industry in the Ponta Grossa-PR region follows the technology applied in the market, aiming for high competitiveness with a focus on customer results and reducing maintenance costs. This practice is evidenced by the application of the 3D printing process with polymeric material to manufacture parts and their subsequent use in industrial maintenance and to improve production processes.