Solving an Obsolete Part Challenge with Additive Manufacturing
When VEC began updating a panel at Trumbull County Career and Technical Center in Warren, we encountered a problem that could have stalled the entire project: a missing breaker cover for a 1970s-era Square D panel. After contacting multiple vendors, we discovered the part was no longer manufactured. Without it, we couldn’t properly secure the gear in the panel, a serious safety hazard.
Instead of accepting delays, we turned to innovation.
Partnering with YBI for a Modern Solution
Jeff Barber, VEC’s EVP of Projects and former board member of the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI), reached out to their Additive Manufacturing team. The solution? 3D printing.
We provided an existing breaker cover, which YBI scanned for precise dimensions and then reproduced using advanced additive manufacturing technology. The result was an exact match, delivered quickly and cost-effectively.
Why Additive Manufacturing Was the Answer
As Dylan Negro, Applications Engineer at YBI, explained:
“If the part isn’t made anymore, then additive is the direct solution to getting one, especially if you need a few pieces fabricated.”
For VEC, this opened new possibilities. Jeff Barber shared:
“This opened a door for us for some of the older parts that we can’t find, especially in the plastics and the metals area. If you have a part that you can provide them to duplicate, they can duplicate that very easy in a short amount of time and at a fairly low cost.”
Stephanie Gaffney, VP of Advanced Manufacturing at YBI, emphasized the broader vision:
“We really want manufacturers and local businesses to use this type of technology and use it effectively.”
The Impact
There was no other viable solution. By leveraging YBI’s additive manufacturing capabilities, VEC kept the project on schedule, ensured safety compliance and demonstrated how technology can solve real-world challenges.
Innovation isn’t just a buzzword, it’s how we deliver results for our clients.
If you’re facing similar challenges or want to learn how VEC can bring advanced solutions to your next project, let’s talk.
