Case Study: Graco, Inc. achieves 90% faster lead times and 80% cost savings with Stratasys 3D‑printed Nylon‑CF10 forming dies

Graco Engineers 3D Printed Metal Forming Dies Using FDM Technology

Graco, Inc., a manufacturer of fluid and coating management systems, needed prototype sheet-metal brackets for a gasoline-powered motor but faced excessive lead times—about four weeks—to machine or outsource standard forming dies, jeopardizing its production schedule. Graco turned to Stratasys and its F370®CR composite printer using FDM® Nylon‑CF10 to explore a faster tooling option.

Using Stratasys technology, Graco 3D printed solid die sets in FDM Nylon‑CF10 on the F370®CR and formed 14‑gauge carbon steel at 0.8 tons; the carbon‑filled nylon provided the stiffness and low friction needed for metal forming. The approach cut tooling cost from $2,000 to $400 (a $1,600, 80% savings), reduced lead time from ~1 month to three days (90% time savings), and one printed toolset completed 40 forming cycles with no degradation—demonstrating rapid, durable, and cost‑effective tooling enabled by Stratasys.

Graco, Inc.