Knowledge Hub

What Technologies are Used for Low Volume Manufacturing?

3D Printing: Also known as additive manufacturing, this technology allows for the production of custom parts in small quantities with minimal setup time and costs.

CNC Machining: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are used to produce parts by subtracting material from a block of raw material. This method is cost-effective for low volume production runs.

Injection Moulding: Injection moulding can also be used for low volume manufacturing with the right setup and tooling. Rapid tooling methods allow engineers to market-test products and troubleshoot the manufacturing process before committing to production tooling.

Laser Cutting: This technology is often used for cutting and engraving materials such as metal, plastic, and wood, making it ideal for low volume manufacturing projects.

Vacuum Casting: This method is used for producing small batches of parts using silicone moulds and polyurethane resins. It is a cost-effective way to replicate high-quality prototypes and small production runs.

Limited market demand: If there is limited market demand for a product, low volume manufacturing can be used to produce a smaller quantity of units to meet the specific needs of the target market.

Seasonal or niche products: Products which are only in demand during certain seasons or which cater to a niche market may be better suited to low volume manufacturing to avoid excess inventory and waste.

Early-stage startups: Startups may opt for low volume manufacturing to minimise the initial costs and risks associated with scaling up production. This will allow them to trial certain concepts and ideas before making a large financial commitment to the production process.

Aftermarket parts: Low volume manufacturing is agile and flexible, and it can be employed to create components on demand to improve the performance of existing products.

Spare parts: Low volume manufacturing can be utilised to produce replacement or spare parts for discontinued products. This is particularly useful if an OEM has stopped manufacturing a particular product which is still widely used by consumers. Innovative technologies such as 3D printing, which relies on the original CAD design, can be used.

Regulatory compliance: Products which require strict adherence to regulatory requirements or certifications may benefit from low volume manufacturing to ensure compliance. This mitigates the risk of producing non-compliant units in large quantities.

Customisation: Low volume manufacturing is ideal for the production of bespoke or custom products which meet the specific needs and requirements of customers.

Faster time to market: With low volume manufacturing, companies can bring products to market more rapidly. As the production volume is smaller, the turnaround time for manufacturing is shorter. This speed-to-market advantage is particularly beneficial for businesses operating in fast-moving industries, or for products which have short lifecycles.

Reduced inventory risks: Producing in smaller quantities helps to minimise the risk of excess inventory. This is especially important for industries where demand is uncertain or rapidly changing. Low volume manufacturing allows companies to produce products based on current demand, reducing the need for excessive stock and associated storage costs.

Lower risk experimentation: Low volume manufacturing provides an opportunity for companies to test new ideas, innovations, or prototypes. This allows businesses to analyse product performance and refine designs without incurring substantial manufacturing costs.

Cost-effective for niche markets: Low volume manufacturing is particularly favourable for niche markets with limited demand. Customisation options and lower production costs allow companies to cater to specific customer needs without compromising profitability.

Reduced waste and sustainability: Low volume manufacturing helps to minimise waste and excess materials by producing fewer units. Such sustainable production practices are good for the environment and have become increasingly important to consumers and regulators.

Utilisation of advanced technologies: Low volume manufacturers often leverage advanced manufacturing technologies, such as 3D printing and CNC machining, to efficiently produce small quantities of products with high precision and quality.

Which Industries Typically Employ Low Volume Manufacturing?

Aerospace and Defence: Due to the complex and unique nature of components required in aerospace and defence applications, low volume manufacturing is often preferred to produce specialised parts and equipment on a smaller scale.

Automotive: The automotive industry utilises low volume manufacturing for prototype development, customisations, and limited production runs of specialty vehicles or parts.

Medical Devices: Many medical devices require precision engineering and customisation, making low volume manufacturing a cost-effective solution for producing small batches of specialised equipment. They also require stringent testing before rolling out full production.