Crack Eraser solves windshield repair woes with Photocentric LC Magna
The 3D Printing Store (3DPS) has used Photocentric’s LC Magna to manufacture a custom drill collet, making windshield repair easier and more efficient than ever before. Photocentric partner 3DPS was approached by Tim Evans and his company Crack Eraser – which helps other entrepreneurs start their own auto glass repair businesses – to develop a part for its repair kit system.
The proprietary technology has helped Crack Eraser to solve the most challenging aspect of windshield repair, that of drilling into the top layer of laminated windshield glass at the point of impact where damage occurred.
“The 3D Printing Store was invaluable in supporting us in development of this industry leading product through months of testing and refinement. We can’t thank the 3DPS enough for their outstanding support in the development of our industry leading 3D printed Drill Stop Collet™!”
Tim Evans
Owner, Crack Eraser
Challenge
The precision 3D printed component is used to hold the tiny glass drill used in windshield repair, and it has made this critical drilling process quick, reliable, and automatic. In the past, learning the correct technique required training, lots of practice, a high degree of fine motor skills and a lot of time to complete a repair successfully.
Solution
The new part has simplified the job and enables Crack Eraser customers to make the perfect drill hole every time. The 3D Printing store said that Photocentric technology was essential in both the rapid prototyping and production phases. They were able to print multiple drill collets to test the depth the drill bit would rest in each collet, and assess whether it was leading to a successful windshield repair. Once the design was finalised, production was fast and post processing was minimal.
“It’s very encouraging to see an innovative entrepreneur like Tim solving challenges by using additive manufacturing technology with our partner The 3D Printing Store. With LC Magna’s large build volume, it’s an excellent choice to produce end-use parts quickly and efficiently at scale, delivering speed, volume and cost savings to businesses. The intricate nature of this part means that precision tools are required, and in this case, LC Magna has been able to provide an agile and flexible solution for manufacture.’’
Sally Tipping – New Business Development Director, Photocentric