Case Study: RPG Industries, Inc. achieves rapid, cost-effective reverse-engineering of legacy metal parts with Markforged Metal X

Reverse-engineering automotive parts using metal 3D printing technology

RPG Industries, Inc., a full‑service contract manufacturer in Ohio serving automotive, aerospace, and oil clients, faced a tough reverse‑engineering challenge when a customer restoring a 1930s car could not find or repair a broken carburetor cap—the original part couldn’t be welded or brazed and machining a faithful replacement would be cost‑prohibitive. Looking for an in‑house metal 3D printing solution, RPG turned to Markforged and invested in a Metal X system (with a Mark Two used for prototyping).

RPG scanned the damaged part, printed an Onyx prototype on the Mark Two, then produced the final component in 17‑4 PH Stainless Steel on the Markforged Metal X; the printed part was air‑ and watertight, returned the vintage car to full function, and satisfied the customer. The Markforged systems shortened turnaround, avoided costly machining, expanded RPG Industries, Inc.’s capabilities for legacy parts, tools, and fixtures, and provided a clear competitive advantage in their shop.

RPG Industries, Inc.

Robert Ginsburg

President