Chemtron Pte Ltd

3D Printed Jigs and Fixtures: Faster Tooling for Your Factory Floor

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 13:00:10 +0000

A production line can have everything it needs people, parts, and machines and still stop because one small tool has not arrived. It might be a drill guide, an inspection gauge, or a fixture that holds a component at the right angle. These tools seldom get much attention until they delay a batch.

Ordering a custom tool from a machine shop makes sense for many jobs. But when the tool is needed quickly, or the design is likely to change, the cycle of drawings, quotations and machining can slow things down. 3D printed jigs and fixtures give manufacturers a practical way to make and revise selected tools closer to the production line.

What is the difference between a jig and a fixture?

A jig guides a tool. A drill jig, for example, helps an operator put holes in the same place on every part. A fixture holds a workpiece in a consistent position during assembly, machining or inspection.

Both help make a task repeatable. The less time an operator spends positioning, measuring and adjusting a part, the easier it is to maintain a consistent process.

Where does 3D printed tooling help most?

Printing is especially useful for custom tools made in small quantities. Instead of waiting for a one-off part to be machined, a team can test a design, adjust it and print the next version. Depending on the design and available print capacity, a small tool may be ready within days or even overnight.

Common factory-floor applications include:

Assembly fixtures that hold components in position while an operator fastens or bonds them.
Drill and cutting guides that help repeat an operation across a batch.
Inspection fixtures and go/no-go gauges that make quality checks easier to perform consistently.
CNC soft jaws and workholding shaped around a particular part.
Robot grippers and end-of-arm tooling tailored to the item being picked up.
Packaging-line change parts for different products or formats.

Printed tools can follow an unusual part contour, include built-in handles or labels, and combine several locating features into one piece. Their lower weight can also make fixtures easier to handle at a busy station. If the product changes, the team can update the CAD model and produce a revised tool without starting a new machining job from scratch.

Cost is another reason to consider printing, particularly for one-off and low-volume tools. The comparison depends on size, material, print time and finishing needs, so it is best to evaluate the total cost of a specific tool rather than assume every printed part will be cheaper.

Choosing a material for 3D printed jigs and fixtures

Start with the job the tool must do. How much clamping force will it see? Will it contact heat, chemicals or abrasive surfaces? Which dimensions must stay accurate over repeated use?

For many assembly guides, checking fixtures and other moderate-duty applications, Markforged Onyx is a useful starting point. It is a nylon material filled with chopped carbon fiber. When the tool needs greater stiffness or must carry higher loads, continuous fiber reinforcement may be appropriate. The printer places continuous fiber within the printed part to reinforce the areas that need it.

The reinforcement available depends on the machine. The Onyx Pro can add continuous fiberglass, while the Mark Two supports options that include continuous carbon fiber and fiberglass. Read our guide to Continuous Fiber Fabrication for a closer look at the process, or explore the 3D printing materials available through Chemtron.

Which printer fits your tooling workflow?

If your team is making smaller fixtures and wants to bring routine tooling in-house, desktop printers such as the Markforged Onyx Pro and Mark Two are places to start. Compare the part size and reinforcement options against your actual tooling list before choosing a model.

For larger fixtures or a more demanding production workflow, the industrial Markforged FX10 is another option. Printer choice should follow the tools you need to make.

When should you keep a metal tool?

3D printing is not the answer to every tooling problem. A polymer fixture may be unsuitable for sustained high heat, severe abrasion or very high loads. A critical locating surface might also need a tighter tolerance or longer wear life than the printed surface alone can provide.

In those cases, you can use a metal tool or take a hybrid approach: print the main body and add a metal insert, bushing or machined datum where it matters. The right choice depends on the forces, operating environment and inspection requirements of the job.

A practical first step for manufacturers

Ask your production and quality teams a simple question: Which three tools cause the most waiting, rework or awkward setups? Start with a tool that is small, frequently changed or needed at more than one station. Record its current lead time and cost, then compare them with the printed version after it has been tested on the line.

You do not need to buy a printer to run that trial. Chemtron’s 3D printing service can produce a first part, and its printer rental option lets you explore printing in your own operation. If the design starts with a sketch or an existing component, the 3D CAD modelling team can help prepare a printable model. For a wider rollout across departments, additive manufacturing consultancy can help identify suitable applications.

Frequently asked questions

Are 3D printed jigs and fixtures strong enough for production use?

They can be, provided the material and design suit the load and environment. Printed tools are used for assembly, inspection and selected workholding tasks. Higher-load applications may call for continuous fiber reinforcement or metal at the contact and locating points. Validate the tool under real operating conditions before putting it into routine use.

How long does it take to print a fixture?

It depends on the part’s size, geometry, material and printer availability. Once the CAD model is ready, a small fixture may be printed overnight; a larger or more complex one can take longer. Include design and testing time when comparing total lead times.

Do I need a CAD model to make a printed jig?

Yes, the printer needs a 3D model. If you only have a sketch, a sample part or an existing tool, Chemtron’s 3D CAD modelling service can help create the model.

Do I have to buy a 3D printer to get started?

No. You can order a trial fixture through a 3D printing service or explore printer rental before deciding whether an in-house printer is worthwhile.

Make your next tool easier to get

The best first printed tool is often one your team already knows it needs: a fixture that takes too long to reorder, a guide that changes with every product revision or a gauge needed at a second station.

Tell Chemtron what the tool does, how it is used and where the current process slows you down. Our team in Singapore and Malaysia can help you assess the design and choose a practical route to production. Call +65 6273 7252 or email info@chemtron.asia.

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ITAP 2025

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:00:41 +0000

15th – 17th October 2025

ITAP 2025

Singapore Expo, Singapore

Empowering Innovation at Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific 2025

We had an incredible experience at ITAP 2025! The event was filled with innovation, energy, and meaningful conversations. It was truly inspiring to connect with industry professionals, technology enthusiasts, and business leaders from around the world. Our booth became a hub of activity as visitors explored the latest advancements from Markforged, experiencing firsthand how our cutting-edge additive manufacturing solutions are driving transformation across industries.

Meeting our existing customers and welcoming new faces gave us the perfect opportunity to share ideas, discuss challenges, and demonstrate how our technologies are shaping the future of manufacturing. We’re grateful for everyone who stopped by to engage with our team and witness the power of innovation in action.

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DRONTECH ASIA 2025

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:28:14 +0000

30th Sept - 2nd Oct 2025

DRONTECH ASIA 2025

MITEC, Kuala Lumpur

Showcasing Innovation at DronTech Asia 2025

We had an incredible time at DronTech Asia 2025! The event was buzzing with innovation, creativity, and technology shaping the future of unmanned systems. Our team had the opportunity to connect with drone enthusiasts, industry professionals, and businesses exploring advanced manufacturing solutions for drone technology. Visitors at our booth experienced the power of Markforged’s 3D printing innovations, seeing how our solutions are redefining strength, precision, and performance in drone manufacturing.

It was exciting to exchange ideas, discuss new possibilities, and showcase how additive manufacturing is enabling smarter, lighter, and more efficient drone designs. A big thank you to everyone who visited our booth and made DronTech Asia 2025 such a memorable and successful event!

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MRO Asia-Pacific 2025

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:10:17 +0000

17th-18th September 2025

MRO Asia-Pacific 2025

Singapore Expo, Singapore

Transforming the Aviation Industry with Markforged 3D Printing

We were thrilled to be part of MRO Asia-Pacific 2025! This year’s event was an incredible platform to showcase how Markforged’s cutting-edge additive manufacturing technology continues to revolutionize the MRO industry. Attendees explored how our composite and metal 3D printing solutions are enhancing operational efficiency, reducing downtime, cutting costs, and promoting sustainability across aviation and aerospace sectors.

It was truly inspiring to connect with industry professionals, exchange ideas, and demonstrate real-world applications that are reshaping the future of maintenance, repair, and operations.

We’re also proud to share that during MRO Asia-Pacific 2025, we signed an MoU with RISE Aerospace, marking an exciting step forward in advancing innovation and collaboration in aerospace manufacturing!

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From School Projects to Space Rockets: 3D Printing for Every Level

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:18:37 +0000

From School Projects to Space Rockets: 3D Printing for Every Level

3D printing has come a long way. What was once a fancy tool only big companies could afford is now being used by students, creators, and engineers around the world. It’s one of those rare technologies that works just as well in a school lab as it does in a rocket factory.

It starts small — with ideas

Think of a classroom where students aren’t just drawing projects on paper. They’re actually printing them. A bridge design for science class, a model for a robotics competition, or a small gadget they dreamed up the night before. 3D printing gives them the power to turn ideas into something they can hold, test, and improve. For many, this is their first real taste of building something from scratch.

Then it grows — with ambition

The same technology that helps a student with a school project is also helping startups and small businesses create real products. A designer can print a prototype overnight and hold it in their hands the next morning. No waiting weeks, no huge costs. It’s quick, flexible, and gives creators the freedom to try new things without fear of wasting time or money.

And it reaches higher — with innovation

In the world of aerospace, 3D printing is a game-changer. Engineers use it to make rocket parts that are lighter, stronger, and faster to produce than traditional methods. What used to take months can now be done in days. It’s hard to imagine, but the same core idea behind printing a school model is also behind sending something to space.

One tool, many possibilities

That’s the beauty of 3D printing. It doesn’t matter where you are on the journey—learning, building, or pushing the limits—it grows with you. It’s not a tool just for experts; it’s a tool for anyone who’s curious enough to create.

How Chemtron fits in

At Chemtron, we help make this technology easy to access and simple to use. Whether it’s supporting schools with the right equipment, guiding startups through rapid prototyping, or supplying high-performance solutions for industries, our goal is to make 3D printing work for everyone. No matter the scale of your idea—small or sky high—we’re here to help bring it to life.

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Five Game-Changing Applications of Metal 3D Printing

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:13:32 +0000

Five Game-Changing Applications of Metal 3D Printing

For centuries, metal fabrication relied on traditional processes like cutting, forming, casting, and machining. While effective, these methods have clear limitations — complex parts are expensive, low-volume production is uneconomical, and design changes can lead to costly retooling.

The arrival of metal 3D printing (also known as metal additive manufacturing) has changed this landscape. Instead of removing material from a solid block, parts are built layer-by-layer from metal powder, enabling unprecedented freedom in design, faster production times, and cost savings across a wide range of applications.

While additive manufacturing won’t completely replace traditional methods, it has emerged as a powerful complementary technology. Its core advantages include:

Geometric Freedom: Complex geometries, intricate contours, and overhangs are printed without adding cost or complexity.
No Tooling Required: Parts are made directly from digital CAD files, eliminating molds, dies, and fixtures.
Automated Workflow: From design to finished part, the process is streamlined, requiring minimal manual intervention.

When these benefits are applied strategically, industrial 3D printing delivers exceptional results. Below are five key applications of metal additive manufacturing that can transform how you design, test, and produce metal parts.

1. Functional Metal Prototypes

In product development, speed and flexibility are critical. Traditional prototyping methods, such as CNC machining or casting prototype tooling, can take weeks and cost thousands of dollars.

With metal 3D printing, fully functional prototypes can be produced directly from CAD files in just days. This rapid turnaround accelerates design validation, allows for multiple iterations, and reduces the overall cost of bringing new products to market.

2. End-of-Arm Tooling for Robotics

In manufacturing automation, robots depend on specialized end-of-arm tooling to grip, move, or manipulate parts. These tools are often custom-made and require complex shapes that can be expensive to machine.

Metal additive manufacturing allows for the quick production of lightweight, durable, and precisely designed end effectors. Complex lattice structures can be incorporated to reduce weight and improve robotic efficiency, while on-demand printing shortens lead times for new automation setups.

3. Custom Tools

Certain manufacturing tasks require tools tailored for unique operations. Producing these in small quantities with traditional methods is often cost-prohibitive due to setup and tooling expenses.

With industrial metal 3D printing, manufacturers can design and produce custom tools quickly and cost-effectively. Complexity comes at no extra cost, allowing engineers to create tools optimized for specific geometries or challenging work environments.

4. Complex Bracketry and Fixtures

When brackets or fixtures need intricate internal structures, thin walls, or unconventional shapes, traditional manufacturing struggles. Machining these designs often requires multiple setups and significant material waste.

Metal additive manufacturing eliminates these constraints. Engineers can design for performance rather than manufacturing limitations, producing lightweight yet strong brackets and fixtures that meet demanding requirements without excessive cost or lead time.

5. Low-Volume End-Use and Legacy Parts

Low-volume production is one of the most cost-challenging areas of traditional manufacturing. Tooling costs cannot be spread over large runs, making small-batch or one-off production expensive.

Metal 3D printing removes the need for tooling entirely, making it ideal for legacy components, spare parts, or customized designs. This is especially valuable when original tooling no longer exists, allowing for affordable production of parts that would otherwise be unavailable.

The Markforged Metal X Advantage

The Markforged Metal X system is designed to make metal additive manufacturing more accessible, safe, and cost-effective. It offers up to 90% cost savings compared to other metal 3D printing technologies and up to 95% savings over traditional machining or casting.

Using a unique process that binds metal powder in a plastic matrix filament, the Metal X eliminates many safety hazards while offering features like closed-cell infill to reduce weight and material costs. Its powerful cloud-based software streamlines production, manages materials, and optimizes print quality — making it an ideal choice for industrial 3D printing applications.

Metal 3D printing is not just a new production technique — it’s a new way of thinking about manufacturing. From faster prototyping and lightweight robotic tooling to affordable low-volume production, it enables businesses to design and produce without compromise.

By integrating metal additive manufacturing into your workflow, you can unlock new design possibilities, reduce costs, and respond to market demands faster than ever before. If you are looking for the Markforged Metal X system in Singapore or Malaysia, Chemtron is the authorized dealer in the region — contact us today to learn more.

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Large-Format Continuous Carbon Printing on FX20

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:11:49 +0000

Large-Format Continuous Carbon Printing on FX20

Manufacturers currently encounter the challenge of producing stronger components at an accelerated pace and in greater quantities, while simultaneously adhering to stringent deadlines. The Markforged FX20 addresses this challenge as a next-generation 3D printer that facilitates the integration of Continuous Fiber Reinforcement (CFR) technology for high-volume production. This blog will examine how the FX20 enhances the capabilities of 3D printing within sectors that require aerospace-grade performance, coupled with

unparalleled flexibility.

What Is the FX20?

The FX20 is Markforged’s most powerful and largest 3D printer to date. It is specifically designed for creating parts reinforced with carbon fiber, and it operates at a larger scale than ever before. Built for high throughput and demanding industrial environments, the FX20 features in-layer fiber placement technology that delivers unmatched strength-to-weight ratios for parts that are comparable to machined aluminum.

Key Features of the FX20

Large Build Size: The FX20 has dimensions of 525 x 400 x 400 mm, allowing it to create large parts in a single print, which eliminates the need for part segmentation or post-assembly.
High-Temperature Specific Uses: The FX20 is specifically designed for high-performance polymers, such as Onyx FR-A and Vega PEKK, both of which are flame-retardant and aerospace-grade.
Precision at Scale: Despite its large size, the FX20 features industrial-grade motion control with closed-loop feedback, ensuring a high level of dimensional accuracy and consistent layer quality.
Faster Lead Time: By utilizing two nozzles and other heated components, the FX20 reduces cycle time, enabling the production of large, strong parts without the need for molds or machining.

Why Scale Matters in CFR Printing

The introduction of large-scale CFR printing creates new opportunities in industries with typically limited manufacturing capabilities.

Aerospace & Defense: Ducting components, brackets, and housings that need to be strong and flame-resistant.
Automotive & Motorsports: Mounting jigs, aerodynamic components, and structural housing for load-bearing applications.
Industrial Tooling: Tools, fixtures, end-of-arm tooling, and custom production aids.

In the past, producing these parts required extensive machining or composite lay-up. Now, they can be 3D printed efficiently in a single piece, effectively managing weight, cost, and lead time.

The FX20’s Role in Digital Transformation

The FX20 seamlessly integrates with Markforged’s cloud-based Eiger software, which allows users to monitor printers remotely, assign fiber paths, and oversee production parts. This integration significantly enhances the scalability of part size and facilitates enterprise-level deployment.

Conclusion

At Chemtron, we are dedicated to providing support to businesses and innovators through the implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies. If you seek to utilize the precision offered by Continuous Fiber Fabrication or enhance the efficiency of traditional composite manufacturing processes, we are here to assist you. We invite you to contact us today to explore how a Markforged Carbon Fiber 3D printer can significantly improve your manufacturing and prototyping operations.

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Why Chemtron is Your Trusted Partner for Markforged 3D Printing in Singapore & Malaysia

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 13:03:00 +0000

Why Chemtron is Your Trusted Partner for Markforged 3D Printing in Singapore & Malaysia

Choosing the right 3D printing partner can significantly impact the success of adopting and scaling additive manufacturing in your business. At Chemtron, we’ve built our reputation by helping companies across Singapore and Malaysia maximize the value of their 3D printing investments — especially when it comes to Markforged systems.

Here’s why many businesses trust Chemtron as their long-term partner for Markforged 3D printing.

Deep Understanding of Markforged Technology

We’ve worked closely with Markforged for several years and understand their ecosystem inside and out — from desktop composite printers to advanced metal 3D printing systems. Our team is trained, certified, and experienced in helping companies across industries use these machines effectively for real-world applications.

Strong Local Presence and Support

One of the biggest advantages of working with Chemtron is our local presence in Singapore and Malaysia. Whether it’s setting up a new printer, resolving technical issues, or offering application advice, we’re close by and ready to support you quickly. This ensures minimal downtime and a much smoother user experience compared to relying on overseas support.

Complete Training & Onboarding

We believe technology should empower teams — not overwhelm them. That’s why we provide hands-on training and personalized onboarding tailored to your needs. Our goal is to help your team become confident in using Markforged technology, from software to material selection and part optimization.

Practical, Application-Focused Approach

Every company has different needs, whether it’s for prototyping, tooling, jigs and fixtures, or end-use parts. Our approach is always consultative — we take the time to understand your goals and offer practical solutions that make sense for your workflow, timeline, and budget.

Trusted by Engineers & Manufacturers Across Industries

Over the years, we’ve supported businesses across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, education, and more. Many of our customers continue to work with us because they value not just the product, but the ongoing relationship and reliable support we provide.

Start Strong, Scale Smart

Whether you’re just exploring 3D printing or looking to expand your existing capabilities, Chemtron offers the right combination of technology, expertise, and service to help you move forward with confidence.

If you’re ready to learn more about how Markforged printers can fit into your operations — or need help deciding where to start — we’re here to help.

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LIMA 2025 | LANGKAWI

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Thu, 29 May 2025 10:52:12 +0000

20-24 MAY 2025

LIMA 2025 | LANGKAWI

Malaysia International Aerospace Centre

Revolutionizing Defense Manufacturing with Markforged 3D Printing

We were proud to showcase the power of Markforged additive manufacturing at LIMA 2025, where we also marked a major milestone with the signing of an MOU between Pecca Group Berhad and Chemtron Pte Ltd to establish a Centre of Excellence for Additive Manufacturing. From cutting-edge carbon fibre composites to high-performance metal parts, our innovations are driving mission readiness, accelerating development, and redefining the future of defence and industrial manufacturing through collaboration and technology.

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The Role of AI in 3D Printing and Automated Design

Chemtron Pte Ltd — Fri, 16 May 2025 06:46:23 +0000

The Role of AI in 3D Printing and Automated Design

The combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and 3D printing is creating exciting possibilities for innovation across industries. AI is no longer just a futuristic concept—it is now playing a crucial role in improving the efficiency, precision, and creativity of 3D printing processes. From automated design generation to real-time quality control, AI is transforming how we approach additive manufacturing.

AI in Automated Design Optimization

One of the key areas where AI contributes is in automated design optimization. Traditionally, creating complex 3D models required skilled designers and countless hours of manual work. With AI-powered software, designers can now automate tasks like topology optimization, generative design, and lattice structure creation. These tools analyze design requirements—such as strength, weight, and material usage—to generate optimized geometries that would be difficult or impossible to design manually.

Enhancing Print Quality with AI-Based Process Control

AI is also improving print quality and process control. Machine learning algorithms can predict potential print failures by analyzing data from previous prints, including temperature fluctuations, layer adhesion, and print speed. Real-time monitoring systems powered by AI detect defects early in the printing process and adjust parameters automatically, reducing material waste and ensuring higher success rates.

Predictive Maintenance for 3D Printers Using AI

In the field of predictive maintenance, AI helps in monitoring the health of 3D printers. By analyzing usage patterns and wear-and-tear data, AI systems can forecast when a machine part is likely to fail. This enables proactive maintenance and minimizes downtime. For industrial-scale additive manufacturing, this translates to higher productivity and lower operational costs.

AI-Driven 3D Scanning and Reverse Engineering

Another exciting application is in AI-driven 3D scanning and reverse engineering. AI algorithms can process 3D scan data more accurately and reconstruct models with minimal manual intervention. This technology is widely used in industries like automotive, aerospace, and healthcare for creating replacement parts, customized products, and precise digital twins of physical objects.

Sustainability and Resource Optimization with AI

AI is also enhancing sustainability in 3D printing. By optimizing material usage and energy consumption during both the design and printing phases, AI contributes to more eco-friendly manufacturing practices. This aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable production methods, making 3D printing a greener alternative to traditional manufacturing.

The Role of Markforged Eiger in AI-Powered Additive Manufacturing

A prime example of AI’s impact in 3D printing is Markforged’s Eiger software, a multifunctional solution designed to streamline the entire additive manufacturing workflow. Eiger empowers users to prep, print, manage, and scale production of strong, functional parts on-demand with a cloud-connected platform. Its AI-driven capabilities enable automated print preparation, digital part inventory management, and simulation tools that validate part performance before printing. Features like inspection provide reliable quality control through automated scanning, while management and integration tools optimize distributed manufacturing operations. Constantly updated and built with enterprise-grade security, Eiger represents how AI and intelligent software are revolutionizing the journey from design to finished part—making additive manufacturing smarter, faster, and more efficient for businesses worldwide.

Conclusion: The Future of AI in 3D Printing

In conclusion, the integration of AI with 3D printing is opening up new frontiers in automated design, quality control, maintenance, and sustainability. As AI technologies continue to evolve, their role in additive manufacturing will only become more significant. Businesses and creators who adopt AI-powered 3D printing solutions like Markforged’s Eiger will stay ahead in the rapidly advancing world of digital manufacturing.

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