For years, harness manufacturers only used 3D printing for basic jigs and tooling, prototyping applications or the connectors needed to perform continuity testing of finished harnesses. Now, though, 3D printer suppliers have introduced machines that enable companies to economically print a wide range of connectors and fixtures.
“Being able to customize the harness components we 3D print is a great benefit, but there are others as well, such as correcting defects and finishing projects quicker,” acknowledges Tim Buhler, director of engineering services at Electrex Inc., which has made wire harnesses for off-road vehicles and on-road specialty trucks since the late 1970s. “The need to enhance our harness quality was the main reason we began 3D printing parts, including test fixtures, clamps to secure wires to boards, and holders that help assemblers locate, orient and identify connectors on the harness.”