PTB Innovates Its Makerspace Thanks to 3ntr Solutions
Empowering Makers with Industrial 3D Printing
The PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), Germany’s National Metrology Institute, made innovation a core pillar for scientific research, training, and rapid prototyping. The Makerspace sits at the heart of this vision as a place where technology and creativity meet.
PTB chose 3ntr industrial 3D printing to enhance this environment. The technology serves as a strategic tool to turn ideas into real, ready-to-use components.
Why 3ntr? Reliability, Precision, and Versatility
After evaluating several technologies, the PTB team selected 3ntr for these key reasons:
- Industrial-grade reliability: Designed to operate continuously with technical materials like ABS.
- Advanced multi-material printing: Capable of combining rigid, flexible, and soluble materials.
- Precision and repeatability: Essential to ensure quality in every application.
“We were looking for a robust technology that would still be accessible for those new to 3D printing.”
Norbert Löwa, Project Manager for Additive Manufacturing
From Idea to Part, Every Day
At PTB’s Makerspace, the 3ntr A2 and A4 printers handle daily applications:
- Functional prototyping: High-precision laboratory tools and ABS parts.
- Technical training: Hands-on learning for students, researchers, and new users.
- Small series production: Custom components for specific research projects.
- Experimental support: Durable parts, complex geometries, and high-performance materials.
The SSI 2025 software makes G-code generation simple and accessible. This ensures a smooth printing process even with intricate geometries.
Tangible Benefits for the Entire Institute
Adopting 3ntr additive solutions delivered concrete advantages:
- Consistent reliability with advanced technical polymers.
- Ease of use for operators of all experience levels.
- Design flexibility through multi-material printing and soluble supports.
- Reduced costs and lead times compared to outsourcing prototypes.
An Ecosystem for Growth
3ntr printers are now essential tools in PTB labs, driving experimentation, training, and technological innovation. This integration shows how industrial 3D printing upgrades educational and practical workflows in science and engineering.
