Replique has enabled the first fully encrypted 3D printing platform that offers OEMs a secure and sustainable way of providing parts on demand, anytime, anywhere. The company achieves this by combining their digital inventory with a global decentralized 3D printing network of AM professionals. With this combination, Replique offers OEMs an end-to-end solution from design to manufacturing and part shipment.
Interview with Dr. Henrike Wonneberger, COO &Co-Founder of Replique.
Easy Engineering: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
Henrike Wonneberger: Replique specializes in three primary areas of activity: spare parts production, small series production, and prototyping & product development. In the spare parts business, we focus on producing spare parts for industrial companies like MAN and Alstom, which may not be available through traditional manufacturing methods or are prohibitively costly to produce. This allows us to offer cost-effective solutions to OEMs and ensure a steady supply of parts to keep operations running smoothly. For small series production, our streamlined production process enables quick ramp-up with no costs for molds and tools, ensuring a fast go-to-market approach with minimal risks. For Rehamedpower for example, we produce customized parts for a recently launched electric wheelchair. Additionally, we support in prototyping and product development, where we leverage 3D printing technology to bring ideas to life efficiently and cost-effectively. Alongside these core activities, we also offer a range of services around 3D printing, including engineering support and additive marking services, to provide comprehensive solutions to our clients from design assistance to quality assurance.
E.E: What’s the news about new products/services?
H.W: In our ongoing commitment to democratize 3D printing, we have recently launched our AM material hub. The database is designed to simplify the material selection process for 3D printing, empowering companies to make informed decisions based on their specific filtering criteria. By providing a comprehensive database of materials and their properties, we aim to enhance efficiency and quality in the 3D printing process for a seamless adoption of the technology.
E.E: What are the ranges of products/services?
H.W: Our core product at Replique is our digital platform, which serves as the backbone of our operations. Companies can order parts via the platform or seamlessly connect their own web shops and ERP systems, for a business as usual. Our network of partners then produces the required parts on demand and where needed.
Additionally, we offer a range of services to support our clients’ needs. These services include engineering and consulting, where we provide expertise in product development and offer services such as automatic screening and workshops to help clients optimize their processes. Furthermore, we serve as connectors within the 3D printing ecosystem, facilitating knowledge exchange between all parties, like material producers, printer manufacturers and service providers.
E.E: What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
H.W: The 3D printing and additive manufacturing market is experiencing growth and maturation, driven by advancements in printing speed, precision, and the development of advanced materials. This broadens the scope of 3D printing applications across diverse industries. More industry-certified materials and an increased focus on sustainable materials are an example of those improvements, showcasing the industry’s commitment to innovation. What is now needed, is the seamless integration of 3D printing into manufacturing processes, presenting the market with numerous opportunities for growth and expansion.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
H.W: There is a noticeable shift towards market consolidation of existing 3D printing service providers. Centralized platforms are expected to play a key role, offering companies a unified interface for various services—addressing the industry’s challenge of fragmentation. This move towards decentralization aims not only for scalability but also a more collaborative, transparent, and efficient supply chain. In light of the growing significance of supply chain resilience, the global availability of service providers capable of producing parts precisely when needed has become more important than ever. Furthermore, there is a heightened focus on sustainability and the development of eco-friendly materials, underscoring the industry’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
E.E: What are the most innovative products/services marketed?
H.W: Within the 3D printing industry, numerous groundbreaking products and services have emerged, advancing the capabilities of additive manufacturing. These include the development of advanced materials such as high-performance polymers and metal alloys, enabling precise fabrication of parts with tailored mechanical properties and thermal resistance. Additionally, innovations in multi-material and multi-color printing allow for the creation of complex, customizable parts for various applications. Developments like these collectively drive progress in 3D printing, shaping a future where customized, sustainable products are readily accessible. Another notable trend is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms into 3D printing processes, enabling predictive modeling, optimization, and automation of printing parameters. With our digital inventory platform and decentralized 3D printing network we enable companies to leverage those trends, allowing access to a huge range of materials and technologies available on the market.
E.E: What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2024?
H.W: Looking ahead to 2024, the 3D printing industry is poised for continued growth and innovation. We are observing a growing awareness among companies regarding the significance of 3D printing, and it is about time for its seamless integration for small to mid-volume series, starting right from the initial design phase. Replique aims to further solidify its position in the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry. Our primary objectives involve the continuous improvement of our digital inventory platform. We are going to integrate more and more services, paving the way for a seamless end-to-end 3D printing process accessible through a single, user-friendly interface. This also means fostering collaborations to address industry challenges. Our primary mission will stay the same: to provide 3D printing solutions that really work, no matter in which stage of their 3D printing journey our customers are. By delivering parts exactly where they need them, precisely when they need them, and in just the right quantities, we help manufacturing companies to overcome today’s challenges.