Lapp integrates additive manufacturing into Epic connector development at its Stuttgart facility to accelerate prototyping and series production. Dr. Philipp Baron, Research Engineer, and Stevens Sehic, Team Leader for connector development, oversee the deployment of industrial 3D printing systems to reduce lead times for custom components. The company recently demonstrated this capability by producing a moisture-shielding component for electrical cabinets in three days, replacing a more expensive laser-cut stainless steel part. This workflow allows for rapid iteration of connector designs, including functional testing for fit and environmental sealing before moving to full-scale manufacturing.

Lapp, a global leader in cable and connection technology based in Germany, is shifting from traditional manufacturing to hybrid production models to mitigate supply chain volatility. By adopting additive manufacturing for specialized components, the company addresses the high cost and long lead times associated with traditional tooling for low-volume or custom connector housings. This move aligns with broader trends in the electrical component sector where manufacturers are increasingly utilizing polymer-based additive processes to provide localized, on-demand solutions for industrial automation and control cabinet applications.

For industrial users, this development confirms that major connector manufacturers are prioritizing design agility over traditional injection molding for specialized, low-volume parts. Lapp must now ensure that their additive production processes maintain the same long-term mechanical and environmental performance standards as their legacy molded products. Buyers should evaluate whether these printed components meet specific ingress protection ratings required for their specific industrial environments.