Challenge: Aliments Racine, a growing vegan food producer, recently expanded their operations with a new production line. To minimize initial investments, they purchased an older stand mixer. However, they encountered a compatibility issue between the mixer’s early 1900s shaft geometry and their modern dough hook attachment. This incompatibility threatened to delay production and increase costs.

Solution: Aliments Racine approached our 3D printing services to create a custom adapter for their dough hook attachment. We proposed designing and manufacturing a series of prototypes to find the perfect fit between the old shaft and the modern attachment.

Process:

  1. Consultation: Our team gathered detailed measurements and information about the mixer and attachment. We measured and 3D scanned required elements.
  2. Design: We created 3D models of potential adapter solutions.
  3. Prototyping: Using our FDM 3D printing technology, we produced several prototypes with slight variations to ensure the best fit.
  4. Testing: Aliments Racine tested the prototypes on their mixer, providing feedback for any necessary adjustments. After a few iterations, we had a perfect adapter.
  5. Final Production: Once the ideal design was confirmed, we printed the final adapters using a durable, food-safe material. The same design was then sent to a manufacturing partner to produce a replica of the part in aluminium.

Results & Benefits:

  • Rapid Turnaround: Our swift response and efficient process helped Aliments Racine get their production line up and running in less than a week.
  • Cost Savings: By adapting their existing equipment, Aliments Racine avoided the expense of purchasing a new mixer and lost business opportunities.
  • On-Time Delivery: With our help, Aliments Racine successfully delivered their first batch of products on time, maintaining their commitment to customers.

Customer Testimonial: “Thanks to UCrea’s quick and innovative 3D printing solutions, we were able to start our production line on time and within budget. Their expertise and dedication to finding the perfect solution were invaluable to our success.” – Esthel Racine, Aliments Racine