Protolabs Unveils Advanced Capabilities and Volume Pricing through Digital Network of Global Manufacturers

Rhea-AI Summary

Protolabs has enhanced its digital manufacturing capabilities by launching a new model that integrates its digital factories with a global supplier network. This innovation allows product developers and buyers to access cost-effective and advanced manufacturing services, including CNC machining, injection molding, and 3D printing. The new system promises improved tolerances and larger production capacities, addressing the need for quick-turn parts and volume production amid budget constraints. Customers can now leverage these services via Protolabs and Hubs' online platforms.

Positive

• Expanded manufacturing capabilities and options for customers.
• Access to advanced CNC machining with precise tolerances.
• Increased production capacities in injection molding.
• Cost-effective 3D printing options for rapid prototyping.

Negative

• None.

Reinvented manufacturing model pairs company’s own digital factories with distributed supplier network to expand options for product developers and production buyers

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Digital manufacturing leader Protolabs (NYSE: PRLB) has significantly expanded its manufacturing capabilities and pricing options available to designers, engineers, and buyers worldwide. By leveraging the company's digital network of manufacturers at Hubs, customers can access advanced capabilities, reduce part cost, and increase part quantities across CNC machining, injection molding, and 3D printing services. The expansion complements the low-volume, on-demand manufacturing services already available from Protolabs.

“Over the past few years, we’ve talked with thousands of customers around the world,” said Rob Bodor, President and CEO at Protolabs. “Many still require quick-turn parts to support their new product innovation or to address supply disruptions. However, a common sentiment in many of these conversations has been the need for cost-efficient parts for volume production in a time when many have reduced budgets. Our digital network addresses that need.”

Here’s a breakdown of additional options unlocked by the manufacturing network:

• CNC machining: Tolerances down to +/- 0.001 in. (0.020mm) are now achievable. Plating (black oxide, nickel), anodizing (Type II, Type III), and chromate coating are available in larger quantities. And parts sizes can range from as large as 40 in. (1,000mm) to as small as 0.02 in. (0.5mm).
• Injection molding: High-requirement molding projects in need of larger and deeper parts (47.24 in. x 27.56 in. x 11.81 in.; 1,200mm x 700mm x 300mm) and more complex parts are also possible.
• 3D printing: Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing is available via the network for rapid prototyping of cost-efficient parts. This is in addition to Protolabs’ six other plastic and metal additive manufacturing technologies offered through its digital factories.

All of the manufacturing capabilities are now live and available to customers, who can access the new CNC machining through protolabs.com, and expanded injection molding and 3D printing FDM options directly through hubs.com.

“Never before has the industry seen a digital manufacturing model quite like this. Protolabs has combined the speed and quality of a service bureau built from the ground up with a highly vetted distributed network of global manufacturers,” said Alex Cappy, Vice President and CEO of Hubs. “We’re pushing the envelope further than ever before to provide a truly seamless service at Protolabs.”

Learn more about Protolabs’ new digital manufacturing model, compare factory and network capabilities, and order parts online at its website.

About Us

Protolabs is the fastest and most comprehensive digital manufacturing service in the world. Our digital factories produce low-volume parts in days while our digital network of manufacturing partners powered by Hubs unlocks advanced capabilities and volume pricing at higher quantities. The result? One manufacturing source—from prototyping to production—for product developers, engineers, and supply chain teams across the globe. See what's next at protolabs.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230330005093/en/

Media Contact

Protolabs

Brent Renneke, 763-479-7704

PR & Media Strategist

brent.renneke@protolabs.com

Investor Relations Contact

Protolabs

Ryan Johnsrud, 612-225-4873

Manager, Investor Relations and FP&A

ryan.johnsrud@protolabs.com

Source: Protolabs

FAQ

What new manufacturing options has Protolabs introduced?

Protolabs announced a new digital manufacturing model that includes enhanced CNC machining, injection molding, and 3D printing services.

How does Protolabs' expanded capabilities benefit customers?

Customers can access advanced manufacturing capabilities, reduce part costs, and increase production quantities, which is essential for quick-turn parts and volume production.

What is the significance of Protolabs' digital network?

The digital network combines Protolabs' digital factories with a vetted global supplier network, offering a unique, efficient manufacturing model.

Where can customers access Protolabs' new manufacturing services?

Customers can access the new services through Protolabs' website and Hubs' platform.

What types of CNC machining does Protolabs offer?

Protolabs' CNC machining now allows tolerances down to +/- 0.001 in. and offers various plating and coating options for larger quantities.