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Every minute of downtime can meant lost revenue. Companies across industries are seeking smarter, faster ways to keep production lines moving — and many are turning to an unlikely hero: 3D printed fixtures.
From custom jigs to inspection gauges, additive manufacturing is transforming the way manufacturers design and implement production line fixtures. Let’s explore how custom 3D printed fixtures are helping manufacturers reduce downtime, accelerate throughput, and stay ahead of the curve.
What Are 3D Printed Fixtures?
Fixtures are critical tools used to hold, support, or align a part during manufacturing, assembly, or inspection. Traditionally, these have been made from metal through CNC machining — which depending on your needs can still be a great option.
With 3D printing, manufacturers can quickly produce custom jigs and fixtures tailored to specific parts or processes, using high-strength thermoplastics like carbon fiber-reinforced nylon or flexible TPU. These materials are lightweight, durable, and resistant to many chemicals and environmental factors common in factory settings.
The Power and Speed of Customization
One of the biggest advantages of 3D printed fixtures is speed. Instead of waiting days or even weeks for machined tools, engineers can go from CAD to fixture in just hours. This rapid turnaround makes it easier to:
- Respond quickly to design changes
- Create multiple iterations for testing
- Minimize disruptions to production
Equally important is the ability to design highly customized tools that perfectly fit your parts, equipment, and processes — without being limited by traditional manufacturing constraints. With additive manufacturing, complex geometries and part-specific contours are not only possible but efficient to produce.
Choosing the Right 3D Printing Process for Fixtures
| HP Multi Jet Fusion | Markforged Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) | Stratasys Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for: High-volume, detailed, and durable fixtures Materials: PA12, PA12 GB, TPU, PA11 Advantages: – Fast production times – Smooth surface finish – Great for flexible and rigid parts – Excellent repeatability and detail Learn more about HP MJF > | Best for: Strong, functional fixtures with precision durability Materials: Onyx (nylon with chopped carbon fiber), Onyx ESD, continuous fiber composites Advantages: – High stiffness and strength – Option for reinforcement with carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass – Ideal for workholding and assembly jigs – Aesthetic, professional surface finish Learn more about Markforged FFF > | Best for: Large-format and high-temperature fixtures Materials: ABS, ASA, PC, PC-ABS, ULTEM Advantages: – Heat and chemical resistance – Robust, industrial-grade builds – Excellent for large tooling and press-fit operations – Great for aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications Learn more about Stratasys FDM > |
Benefits Beyond Speed
While faster lead times are a huge advantage, 3D printing for manufacturing fixtures offers other critical benefits:
- Cost savings: Printed fixtures typically cost 50–80% less than machined metal versions.
- Weight reduction: Lighter tools reduce operator fatigue and can be used in robotic or automated systems.
- Iterative design: Engineers can test and revise fixtures quickly without starting from scratch.
- On-demand replacement: Lost or broken fixtures can be reproduced from a digital file in hours — no tooling inventory needed.
Real World Use Cases: Fixtures in Action
1. JJ Churchill (Aerospace Turbine Blades)
Jet-engine turbine blades require ultra-precise inspection. Using Markforged’s Onyx filament reinforced with continuous carbon fiber, JJ Churchill created CMM fixtures that:
- Were produced 70% faster
- Cost 80% less
- Maintained tight tolerances with minimal deflection
- Met durability expectations for shop-floor use
Their engineer noted: “once we realized the directional strength properties available… we haven’t used anything else.”
Learn more about this fixture >
2. UPTIVE Customer fixture (Assembly Sorting Part)
UPTIVE 3D printed fixtures to use internally for a customer who asked for heat set insert to be added to multiple places on the part. We designed and printed a triangle fixture to help turn and hold the part in place.
The UPTIVE Advantage
At UPTIVE, we specialize in helping manufacturers move fast without sacrificing quality. Whether you need a custom fixture for assembly, machining, or quality inspection, we offer a range of 3D printing technologies (including HP MJF and Markforged) and materials to meet your exact requirements.
We don’t just print parts — we partner with you to improve your workflow and eliminate production headaches.
Ready to Speed Up Your Line?
If your production line is being slowed down by long fixture lead times, limited tooling resources, or rigid processes, it may be time to try a smarter approach. With 3D printed fixtures, you can go from idea to implementation in record time — and keep your operations running smoothly.
Explore how Uptive can help you build better, faster, and more flexible production line tools.