Boats are complex, so many things can break. In fact, even minor damage can mean a lengthy search for spare parts. Especially if the manufacturer already has a modified version and no more spare parts in stock. Whether it's a compass cover, bezels for built-in instruments, sensor union nuts or individual switches in a panel: it would be disproportionate to replace entire components if only a small part is defective. This is where the idea of simply producing replacement parts using 3D printing comes in. Until now, however, this has required a 3D printer and at least basic knowledge of designing components in a CAD programme. The North German company Ersatzteildrucken.de is now taking on this task for owners.
From damage assessment to the digital model
The first step is to send us an enquiry by email with photos of the damaged part. In addition, a brief description of the damage and the requirements, i.e. what loads the part may be exposed to. The experts at Ersatzteildrucken.de will then estimate the cost and provide a quote. The defective part can then be sent in.
The actual repair process at Ersatzteildrucken.de begins with a detailed measurement of the damaged part. Modern 3D scanners capture the exact geometry. The scans are transferred to CAD software. The digital repair then begins. Fragments are joined together or a crack is closed. In this step, an improvement with additional reinforcements is even conceivable. This is how the template for the print is created on the screen.
Spare parts hot off the press
The modelling is followed by production. Nylon PA12 is used as standard. This plastic is very resistant and is significantly more robust than conventional injection moulded parts. Here too, however, the choice of material depends on the subsequent application. Resins reinforced with glass or carbon fibre or even metals can also be used in 3D printing processes. After printing, the surface can be finished by polishing, grinding or painting, depending on the agreement in the quotation.
Once the part is finished, it is measured again to ensure that everything fits. The finished spare part is then sent to the customer by post. According to Managing Director Udo Wiegandt, this process takes around 14 days. Half of this time is taken up by the post. It takes longer if the customer has a change request after the initial quotation. For the impatient, express or courier deliveries are also available for an extra charge. Wiegandt is a boat owner himself and has already supplied a number of spare parts for boats.
For the repair of Spare parts printing.com there are different package prices: Economy for 29, Restore for 49 and All inclusive for 99 euros. The cheapest rate is recommended if a part needs to be duplicated. No digital repair is included and the actual printing is not included. All inclusive includes all the work steps described above for parts up to 16 centimetres in length. However, prices may vary depending on the work involved and the material used. Larger parts up to 80 centimetres in length can also be produced on request.
The price is high, but can quickly be put into perspective. If, for example, the switch can be replaced and a new switch panel does not have to be installed, this not only saves money but also time. If the new switch panel had different dimensions, time would also have to be allowed for a new cut-out in the bulkhead. Planning, material and conversion time should not be underestimated here. If several switches are then made as replacements instead of one, the price increases only minimally, but the panel can still perform its service on board for many years to come. There are many similar examples on board. This leaves more time on the water or for other maintenance work.
