What happens when a company switches from traditional mass manufacturing to on-demand 3D printing?
In this case study, we explore how a mid-sized Indian company reshaped its entire supply chain using additive manufacturing — reducing cost, speeding up delivery, and lowering inventory risks.
🏭 Background
Company: DeltaTools (Nashik, Maharashtra)
Industry: Industrial Tools & Machine Parts
Challenge:
- Dependence on imports for low-volume machine parts
- ₹15–20 lakh/month in unused inventory
- Long lead time: 25–40 days per part
🔁 3D Printing Shift Strategy
In 2023, DeltaTools partnered with Trinity Layers to test local on-demand production using FDM and SLS 3D printing.
Steps Taken:
- Analyzed 120+ slow-moving parts
- Converted 85 into printable STL formats
- Set up a small in-house print farm (4 FDM + 1 SLS)
- Started using nylon and carbon-fiber filaments
📉 Results in 6 Months
| Metric | Before | After 3D Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory Cost (per month) | ₹18.2 lakh | ₹4.5 lakh |
| Avg. Lead Time (imported part) | 32 days | 3 days |
| Spare Part Rejections | 9% | 1.5% |
| Dead Stock Value | ₹1.2 Cr | ₹25 lakh |
✅ ROI Achieved: Within 9 months
✅ 62% parts now printed on demand
🛠️ Use Cases of 3D Printing in Their Supply Chain
- Jigs & fixtures for assembly
- Tool holders & clamps
- End-use parts for niche machines
- Obsolete parts reproduced from scans
- Packaging templates & internal trays
💡 Why It Worked
- No MOQ required for parts
- Print only when needed = zero waste
- Easy redesign and customization
- Avoided international delays
🔧 Trinity Layers’ Role
- Converted 2D drawings into ready-to-print STL files
- Setup consultation for in-house print lab
- Provided maintenance-free FDM machines
- Offered training to 5 staff on slicing and operation
- Created online dashboard for part requests
📦 Final Supply Chain Model
Design → Print → Use — no storage, no shipping delays.
DeltaTools is now planning to launch a B2B spare-part platform powered by 3D printing.
💬 “Our inventory shrank, but our profits grew.” – Supply Chain Head, DeltaTools