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The Digital Thread

Your blog feed for manufacturing resources, in-depth features, and industry news.

Latest Posts

 Solar Racing Car
digital innovation
13/06/2025

Racing the Sun: Engineering the World’s Most Successful Solar Racing Team

What does it take to build a car capable of crossing a continent on nothing but solar power? Find out how Brunel Solar Team, the world’s most decorated solar racing team engineers a winning formula as they prepare for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.
By Alex Edwards
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Facility Condition Assessments
global supply chain
03/06/2025

Trending Topics in Manufacturing: Taking the Pulse of the Industry

Get to know the latest trends shaping the future of manufacturing in 2025. From overcoming supply chain challenges and leveraging AI, to enhancing sustainability and embracing digital innovation, we explore navigating industry-wide challenges with cutting-edge technologies.
By Protolabs
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DMLS process
CNC machining
26/05/2025

CNC vs. DMLS: Which One Is Right for Your Part?

Engineers and designers often face this decision when prototyping or producing complex metal parts. Each process comes with strengths and limitations. This guide breaks down the differences, from materials and surface finishes to cost, speed, and complexity, so you can choose the method that best fits your needs.
By Protolabs
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3DP factory
3D Printing
07/05/2025

3D Printing Materials for Rapid Prototyping

See our recommendations for selecting 3D printing materials that are best suited to rapid prototyping. Find out which materials are most durable, cost-effective and commonly used to validate various types of products.
By Protolabs
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Orange part

Traceability in Manufacturing and Why it Matters

Explore how digital manufacturing techniques aid in process traceability for injection moulding.
By Protolabs
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quality control processes
Quality
01/04/2025

What is PPAP in Manufacturing?

Understand the role of PPAP in manufacturing quality assurance
By Protolabs
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Manufacturing
industry insights
28/03/2025

What are the Key Principles of Lean Manufacturing?

Industry leaders are embracing lean manufacturing. It cuts down on waste, improves efficiency, and keeps businesses competitive. Learn about the core principles and how it applies to your business.
By Protolabs
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CNC machining
CNC machining
27/03/2025

The Anatomy of a CNC Machine & How This Influences Output Quality

Compare the features of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery and how they influence part quality. Find out how to get the most out of CNC machining and how technological developments affect the performance of your designs.
By Protolabs
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Customer Service
resources
17/03/2025

HS Codes: Your Definitive Guide to the Harmonised System

Find out about the Harmonised System, the globally recognised system for classifying various types of products for international trade. Understand HS codes, where to find them, and their role in customs procedures, including tariffs and importing and exporting regulations.
By Protolabs
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3D Printing for Rapid Prototyping
Industry Insights
24/02/2025

The Benefits of 3D Printing for Rapid Prototyping

Rapid prototyping with 3D printing turns CAD files into physical parts in days, enabling fast testing and iteration. This blog shows how it accelerates product development and boosts competitiveness.
By Protolabs
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DMLS 3D Printed Parts
3D Printing
03/01/2025

Metal 3D Printing vs. Traditional Casting: Comparing Benefits and Use Cases

The differences between casting and DMLS are quite stark, compare the two technologies to find out what works best for your application
By Chloe Vollaro
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Injection Moulding Facility
injection moulding
25/11/2024

Rapid Injection Moulding: Fast Tooling for Quick-Turn Parts

Tips for getting fast injection-moulded parts and get to market faster
By Michael Johnson
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