How 3D Printing is Remodeling the Kitchen Cabinet Industry

I had the pleasure of speaking on behalf of Javelin’s 3D printing team at the CKCA Fall Regional Event on September 20^th, 2016. Founded in 1972, the Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA) is a national association that promotes the interests and conserves the rights of kitchen cabinet, bathroom vanity and related millwork manufacturers, as well as their suppliers and dealers, throughout Canada.

Leading up to the event I felt a little uneasy on what to focus on to deliver an interesting and engaging presentation. I did my research and called around to some of the members and hit my notebook. What I came to realize was, no matter the size of a home product company, everyone can use an extra set of hands while manufacturing and installing their products. As the day of the presentation loomed closer I felt increasingly prepared yet slightly uneasy.

Upon my arrival at the event I quickly realized how great of a membership the CKCA holds. Everyone welcomed me with handshakes, warm smiles, and a sense of pure curiosity of how 3D printing could dramatically affect their company’s workflow. I have to say, I was absolutely blown away by how fantastic the kitchen and cabinetry culture was. Everyone was eager to learn about 3D printing and the buzz in the room was electrifying. Talk about having a weight lifted off my shoulders before presenting! The presentation went well and was followed up with many fantastic questions from the event attendees.

Stratasys Fortus 900mc 3D Printer

Javelin’s 3D printing team has excellent experience with drill guides and jigs for shop floors. We positioned our biggest 3D printer, the Fortus 900mc, in a company called 3D Print Western who created an incredible drill guide. Having worked with 3D Print Western to redesign the jig to utilize all of the added benefits of 3D printing, we could apply the same theories to the kitchen and cabinet industry.

Since complexity is free in 3D printing, we are able to deboss text into the part. This reduces the extra step of labeling parts after they have been made and actually saves print time as there is less material consumed by the cut out of the logo. Removing the labeling labour hours is just another example of using 3D printing to simplify the manufacturing process of a component. The drill guide ended up being less expensive, lighter to carry, and more accurate as the parts geometry perfectly aligned with the part that needed drilling.

This same application is perfect for the CKCA membership base. Having that extra set of hands in the form of a 3D printed jig/fixture allows the production line to be more efficient while also saving money.

I cannot thank the CKCA enough for the wonderful speaking opportunity. From the feedback we got, the presentation was a hit and I cannot wait to develop relationships further while evaluating the benefits of 3D printing in the kitchen and cabinet industry.