3D Printing in Electronics and Instrumentation: From Concept to Enclosure Within a Day

Modern Devices Demand Flexibility

Electronic development is a world of rapid iterations. New boards, sensors, enclosures, and custom interfaces require swift and precise adaptation. This is why FDM 3D printing has become an integral part of research and development (R&D), innovation, and small-batch production in this industry.

Applications of 3D Printing in Electronics and Instrumentation

1. Device Cases and Enclosures

Printed:

• custom cases for microcontrollers, sensors, displays;

• heat sinks and covers for non-standard boards;

• modular assemblies with clips, ventilation, and labeling.

2. Fasteners and Holders

Created:

• holders for boards and components for soldering and assembly;

• organizers for assembly lines;

• stands for testing, alignment, and measurements.

3. Small Batch Production

FDM is suitable for:

• custom orders and small batch production;

• rapid product adaptation for customers;

• customizing devices without retooling.

Advantages of FDM in Electronic Development

• Iterations within hours, not weeks

• High adaptability for any board or sensor

• Reduced development and testing costs

• Fast transition from prototype to finished product

“We reduced the cycle from idea to final casing from 3 weeks to 2 days thanks to FDM printing” — IoT device development engineer

Materials Used

• ABS, ASA, PETG — enclosures with excellent impact resistance.

• PC, PC-ABS — for heat-resistant and durable casings.

• TPU — for cushioning and flexible elements.

• ESD plastics — for protection against electrostatic discharge.

Real Cases

• Smart home manufacturers print test enclosures and wall mounts.

• Medtech creates casings for portable diagnostics.

• Academic laboratories print setups for experiments and trials.

Protype — FDM Printer for Modern Electronics

Ideal for startups, R&D, manufacturing engineers, and integrators:

• Integrated slicer and display — no external PC setup required;

• Air filtration (HEPA) — safe for office or lab use;

• Dual independent heads — print flexible and rigid materials simultaneously;

• Automatic filament change — suitable for serial printing.

Want to Accelerate Prototyping and Launch of New Devices?

Submit an application — we will demonstrate how Protype can transform your development approach.