Case Study: Autometrix achieves major cost and lead-time savings with Markforged 3D-printed Kevlar-reinforced brackets

Replacing an Aluminum Tool Mount with a 3D Printed Bracket

Autometrix, a maker of CNC-based automated textile cutting systems and pattern software, needed to reduce lead time, cost, and inventory for wear-prone aluminum parts on its cutting heads. After testing maker-level printers, Autometrix adopted the Markforged Mark One composite 3D printer to prototype and replace critical components—specifically the cutting head bracket and cutting-tool mount—with stronger, Kevlar®-reinforced composite parts.

Using the Markforged Mark One and its Eiger software, Autometrix exported CAD files from Inventor as STLs, added fiber reinforcement through the web interface, and printed durable nylon parts reinforced with Kevlar®—a process the team described as “hit print and walk away.” The switch delivered measurable benefits: each tool mount prints in ~7 h 22 m with material cost around $8.60 ($6.57 nylon + $2.03 Kevlar®), while providing torsion- and impact-resistant performance, faster turnaround, lower cost, and reduced inventory thanks to on-demand production with Markforged.

Autometrix