Also offers 3D printing and 3D scanning equipment, laser engraving and cutters, ATTBLIME 3D scanning spray, as well as a full range of 3D filaments.
South Africa is a relatively well-developed country and this propels an appetite for advanced technologies and so it has been comparatively easy for the development of a 3D printing landscape in South Africa. South Africans have also been proud pioneers in the development and implementation of the technology.
Many internationally renowned 3D printer manufacturers and suppliers have set up a base engaging several local South African companies in their reseller programmes through distributorship deals. However, in recent years there has been a proliferation of companies and individuals supplying equipment and consumables that have been imported from all over the world. In April 2019, for example, there were only 15 companies in South Africa directly involved in 3D printing services.
“This has now jumped to 100s and nobody has the real statistics. In a sense we have joined this wave but with a difference,” explains Jacques Swanepoel, the new MD of 3D Printing Systems SA.
3D Printing Systems SA offers Tiertime UP 3D Printers, manufacturers of the trusted and reliable UP range of 3D printers. The printers and systems manufactured by Tiertime are used in industry for production, education and prototyping. The range of printers are not printers for hobbyists
“3D Printing Systems SA is one of the early pioneers of the technology in South Africa. The company’s history dates back to April 2013. Engineer Erwin von Maltitz had been tinkering with the technology as a hobby but it soon became apparent that he could setup a business and extend his working career and add to his retirement package.”
“He began importing Tiertime UP 3D Printers, manufacturers of the trusted and reliable UP range of 3D printers and Shining 3D scanners, manufacturer of the EinScan range of high-quality 3D scanners at an affordable price, thus being one of the first to do so.”
“Erwin is very well-known in the 3D printing industry and has been an active member of RAPDASA.”
Acquiring 3D Printing Systems SA
“We have now purchased the company 3D Printing Systems SA. The company offers a wide variety of 3D printing and scanning solutions from these brands, from larger heavy duty models for the factory floor to economic desktop printers for the office. Whatever you need to create, or problem you need to solve, we have versatile 3D printers, scanners and accessories to suit your creative ambition.”
“A big advantage that we have as compared to those companies that started in the last 5 years is that 3D Printing Systems SA has many systems operating successfully in South Africa and we can call on this experience going forward.”
The Tiertime BOX+ is capable of printing detailed prototypes and end-use parts with minimal layer line visibility in a variety of materials
Printers for industry production, education and prototyping
“I must point out that this range of printers are not printers for hobbyists. The printers and systems manufactured by Tiertime are used in industry for production, education and prototyping.”
Service backup
“Like any other equipment used in manufacturing the printers and scanners need regular servicing. We have put an emphasis on the service and spares department and the personnel that were with the previous owners we have employed. They are very experienced in the equipment and the industry.”
“With our backup support on the machines this is also a differentiating factor compared with all the other brands out there. Our clients can concentrate on their core business which is making prints and we will worry about keeping their machines running efficiently.”
3D printing, scanning and design service
“Additionally, we will be offering a 3D printing, scanning and design service. There are many companies out there that struggle with finding a company that can help with replacing wear parts or broken components, lost designs or want product improvement done. We are offering a 3D scanning service where we will create a digital replica from our scanning machines, create the detailed 3D models ready for 3D printing or CNC machining, and then do the 3D printing.”
“Job creation and entrepreneurial support is of paramount importance in South Africa and 3D printing is very surely addressing this as is evident with South Africa’s technology hub. South Africa’s 3D printing ecosystem has enjoyed a thriving community of enthusiasts and designers. From a South African industrial perspective, the availability of 3D printing services is of great importance especially when it comes to customising spare parts and prototyping. South Africa’s manufacturing space is one of the big benefactors of the technology and it solves the supply chain issue regarding spares considering how far they are from the European or Far East Hubs.”
The company will also be offering the EinScan range of high-quality 3D scanners
“For small businesses deciding which type of printer to invest in, it’s crucial to evaluate the intended use cases. If the goal is to create simple prototypes or parts quickly and affordably, an FDM printer might be the best choice. For businesses in fields where detail and surface finish are paramount, an SLA printer could be more appropriate. Meanwhile, if the production of strong functional parts is required, an SLS printer might be the ideal investment.”
“Investing in a 3D printer can unlock new possibilities for small businesses by enabling them to innovate faster, reduce costs, and offer customised solutions to their clients.”
Choosing the right printer
In the dynamic world of small business, agility and the ability to quickly adapt to market demands are key. 3D printing has revolutionised this space, offering exceptional flexibility in product design and manufacturing.
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) printers
FDM is one of the most common 3D printing technologies due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of use. It works by extruding thermoplastic filaments through a heated nozzle, layer by layer, to build an object. FDM printers are ideal for small businesses that require rapid prototyping or manufacturing of sturdy parts with standard resolution.
FDM printers are generally more affordable than other types of 3D printers, making them accessible for small businesses, they can work with a wide range of thermoplastic materials, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and more specialised filaments like flexible TPU or composite materials. Many FDM printers are designed with user-friendly interfaces and minimal setup, making them suitable for beginners.
Additionally, 3D Printing Systems SA will be offering a 3D printing, scanning and design service
Stereolithography (SLA) printers
SLA technology is renowned for its high precision and excellent surface finish. It uses an ultraviolet (UV) laser to convert liquid resin into hardened plastic. This type of printer is perfect for small businesses that require detailed models with smooth surfaces, such as jewellery design, dental products, or intricate prototypes.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printers
SLS printers offer high-strength and durable parts by using a laser to fuse or sinter powdered material – typically nylon – layer by layer until the object is complete. This type of printer is suitable for small businesses that need robust functional parts or short-run production without the need for support structures.
“Whether you do prototyping, short-run manufacturing or one-of-a-kind creations, 3D Printing Systems SA offers an entire line of products to help you realise your vision.”
3D printing filaments: 3D Printing Systems SA suppliers of the UP and TM filament brands. “A big advantage for our clients is that besides offering equipment, design, spares and servicing we can also offer them the full range of 3D filaments. These include ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) thermoplastic filament. ABS is the plastic of choice for 3D printers, as the printed parts are tough and durable and are the same plastic used for the manufacture of Lego.”
“Examples of our equipment include the Tiertime UP600, a factory built and fully enclosed large 3D printer that offers industrial quality 3D printing and large print volumes of up to 400mm by 500mm by 600mm. The industrial 3D printer is designed to enable the printing of very large parts in one go, reducing post-production assembly needs.”
“Or there is the Tiertime UP300 3D, which is ideal for businesses, engineers, designers, architects, and schools or the enthusiast. Build volume 205mm by 255mm by 225mm.”
“Additional and complementary equipment we offer is the Emblaser, an affordable and accessible desktop laser engraver and cutter, and the Vaquform, an advanced desktop thermoforming machine.”
3D Printing Systems SA offer ABS, PLA, PETG, TPU, PVC, nylon, flex plastic filament and other filaments and the variants of them
3D printing filaments: Sole suppliers of the UP and TM filament brands
“A big advantage for our clients is that besides offering equipment, design, spares and servicing we can also offer them the full range of 3D filaments. These include ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) thermoplastic filament. ABS is the plastic of choice for 3D printers, as the printed parts are tough and durable and are the same plastic used for the manufacture of Lego.”
“Our filament is a high-end technical grade. We are sole suppliers of the UP filament brand as well as the TM technical filaments. These cost more per kilogram but save more in total cost of ownership due to the higher quality and less down time due to blockages and breakages. Prints are also at a higher quality due to less moisture and non-recyclable materials used in the filament as filler. Again, setting us apart from the hobbyist systems out there.”
“Then there are the ABS, PLA, PETG, TPU, PVC, nylon, flex plastic filament and other filaments. We offer all of these and the variants of them.”
“When I think about the potential that 3D printing has in making a difference just about anywhere in the world. Whether it’s an FDM printer for its versatility and ease of use, an SLA printer for its high-resolution capabilities, or an SLS printer for its strength and efficiency in producing durable parts, there is a 3D printing solution out there that can meet the unique needs of any small business looking to leverage this cutting-edge technology.”
For further details contact 3D Printing Systems SA on TEL: 079 514 6885 or visit https://www.3dprintingsystems.co.za
