Case Study: Dixon Valve achieves 88% time and cost savings with Stratasys 3D printing

Dixon Connects with 3D Printing

Dixon Valve, a century-old hose coupling manufacturer, needed faster, lower-cost tooling and durable parts to support automated gantry systems and production fixtures. To accelerate development of functional prototypes and tooling, Dixon Valve’s Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Department adopted Stratasys FDM 3D printing technology, including a Fortus 3D printer and materials such as ABS‑M30 and FDM Nylon 12.

Stratasys’ solution let Dixon Valve print gantry locators, grippers, fixtures, jaws and unique angled elbows quickly and with production-grade strength and finish. Using Stratasys equipment, Dixon Valve reduced material and labor costs, achieved an 88% savings in time and cost versus traditional manufacturing, cut turnaround from idea to part to about 48 hours, and moved many tools into regular production—results the company credits to the balance of strength and surface finish offered by Stratasys.

Dixon Valve

Rodney Everett, Jr.

Industrial Engineer