Case Study: Graco, Inc. achieves 10X hand-tool life and lower cost with Stratasys 3D printing

Graco Takes Design to the Next Level with Stratasys F370®CR Composite 3D Printer

Graco, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of systems for managing fluids and coatings, faced repeated wear of ABS hand tools used to check paint-sprayer pressure—splines on the tool would degrade with use, forcing frequent replacements. To address this, Graco partnered with Stratasys and leveraged the F370CR composite 3D printer and FDM Nylon‑CF10 material to produce a more durable, easily fabricated tool.

Stratasys’ 3D-printed solution delivered stronger, tougher parts with a finer surface finish and better-defined splines; after several months in service the printed tool showed no wear and is expected to achieve at least a 10X life improvement over the ABS version. The Stratasys approach also reduced cost versus a machined alternative and enabled faster, ergonomic redesign of the handle.

Graco, Inc.