"Using 3D Printers for Apple Watch Cases... Apple Experiments with Production Process Application"

"First Introduced in Steel Parts Manufacturing... Plans for Future Expansion"
"Years of Technology Development... Must Prove Cost Reduction"

Apple is reportedly experimenting with introducing 3D printers in the manufacturing process of steel components used in the Apple Watch and its cases. If this experiment is successful, Apple plans to expand the use of 3D printers to other product manufacturing processes, drawing attention to whether 3D printing can establish a place in Apple's supply chain.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

Bloomberg reported this on the 30th (local time), citing multiple sources. Apple has been conducting experiments over the past few months using 3D printers in the production process of steel cases for the Apple Watch Series 9, which is scheduled to be unveiled on the 12th of next month.

Apple has reportedly been developing technology to manufacture steel parts using 3D printers in collaboration with 3D printer suppliers for over three years. Previously, Apple produced steel components for Apple Watch-related parts using forging, a traditional manufacturing method that involves hammering or pressing metal materials.

The new technology uses a type of 3D printer called binder jetting to create a large frame close to the actual product size. Solid powder material is fed into the 3D printer, compressed to harden, and then heated to form a rough shape. Afterward, precise design and finishing work are performed using CNC processes, the same as in traditional methods.

If Apple applies this technology to Apple Watch case production, the manufacturing time is expected to decrease since there is no need to cut large metal plates, and the amount of raw materials used in the process will be reduced, which is also considered beneficial for the environment.

Apple is still in the early stages and is expected to use this technology to produce only a small quantity of cases for the time being. While Apple plans to apply this technology to the Titanium Ultra Watch as well as steel, no plans have been set for 2024.

Sources said that if these measures related to Apple Watch production proceed as planned, Apple intends to expand the use of 3D printers to other product manufacturing processes.

Bloomberg explained, "Apple needs to prove that this technology can simplify the production process and potentially reduce costs gradually," adding, "So far, the cost per watch case produced using the new technology is not significantly different from the previous process."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.