3D Printing Service for Hythe
Rapid Prototyping and Custom 3D Printing Solutions
🛠️ Case Study:
Hythe – Replacing a Broken Locking Knob on Boat Steering
Location: Hythe, waterside near Southampton Water
Client: Independent marine/outboard service tech
Service Provided: Reverse Engineering, CAD Modelling, PETG Print with Full Infill
Delivery: Royal Mail Tracked 24®
Turnaround: 3 days
🚤 The Problem – Steering Play on a Small Motorboat
We got approached by a marine tech covering Hythe. He was working on a small leisure boat and found the locking knob on the steering linkage had cracked.
That plastic knob preloads the linkage and takes out play. Once it cracked, the helm had slop in it. Not dangerous yet — but not good.
The OEM part was technically still “available,” but the lead time and shipping were ridiculous for what is basically a shaped plastic fastener.
So he posted us the cracked knob.
🧠 The Process – Make It Stronger, Not Just Prettier
We scanned the geometry and rebuilt it in CAD. We thickened the main load-bearing collar and added a smoother grip profile so you can tighten it by hand without digging into your fingers.
We confirmed thread spec and tolerances with the tech — because if the thread’s off by even a fraction, it’ll bind or strip. After that, green light.
🌊 Material – Marine, So It Has to Survive
Hythe is coastal. Salt air, vibration, sun. PLA? No. ABS? Can work indoors, but not long-term on a marine fitting like this.
We printed in PETG, carbon-reinforced, at 100% infill. That gives strength, just enough flex not to shatter, and resistance to UV and salt exposure.
We gave it a quick post-process to smooth the grip surface and keep it comfortable for hand tightening.
📦 Result – Steering Tight Again
We shipped Tracked 24®. He threaded it on, preloaded the linkage, and got immediate improvement in steering feel.
His comment back to us:
“Feels stronger than the one from factory. And it looks decent, which matters to the customer.”
He then ordered a pair of backups. We already had the CAD, so reprints cost less.
🛥️ Why Hythe Marine Techs Call Us
Hythe lives on marine work — ribs, outboards, small craft. Most of those boats use plastic fittings and knobs that go brittle over time. You don’t need a new steering kit. You don’t need a new linkage. You just need that one little part remade in a plastic that can actually live in salt and sun.
1. What are the key properties of ABS filament?
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is renowned for its strength and durability. It melts at approximately 220–250°C and requires a print bed temperature of 80–110°C to ensure proper adhesion. With a tensile strength of around 40–50 MPa, ABS is ideal for parts subjected to mechanical stress.
2. How does PLA filament perform in 3D printing?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is favored for its ease of use and biodegradability. It has a melting temperature between 180–220°C and a recommended bed temperature of 50–60°C.
PLA offers a tensile strength of 50–60 MPa, making it suitable for prototypes and decorative items
3. What distinguishes PETG from other filaments?
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) combines the ease of PLA with the strength of ABS. It melts at 220–250°C and adheres well to beds heated to 70–90°C.
PETG is known for its impact resistance and clarity, making it suitable for functional parts and containers.
4. Why choose Nylon filament for 3D printing?
Nylon is celebrated for its flexibility and toughness. It requires a melting temperature of 240–260°C and a bed temperature of 60–80°C.
With a tensile strength of 50–70 MPa, Nylon is ideal for mechanical parts and tools.
5. What are the benefits of Nylon infused with Carbon Fiber?
Nylon + Carbon Fiber offers enhanced rigidity and strength. It melts at 240–260°C and benefits from a bed temperature of 60–80°C.
This composite boasts a tensile strength of 80–100 MPa and a flexural strength of 120–150 MPa, making it perfect for high-stress applications
6. How does TPU filament stand out?
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is known for its flexibility and elasticity. It melts at 220–240°C and adheres well to beds heated to 50–60°C.
With a tensile strength of 20–25 MPa,
TPU is ideal for parts requiring flexibility, like gaskets and wearable items.
7. What are the characteristics of Polycarbonate filament?
Polycarbonate (PC) is prized for its strength and heat resistance. It melts at 250–300°C and requires a bed temperature of 80–110°C.
PC is suitable for high-impact applications and parts exposed to elevated temperatures
8. Why use Castable Resin in 3D printing?
Castable Resin is designed for high-detail casting applications. It transitions to gas at high temperatures, leaving minimal ash residue.
With a tensile strength of 32 MPa, it's ideal for jewelry and dental molds.
Testimonials
" Very helpful guys, patient too. Had a cool design to print a custom backplate for my Legion Go handheld device, and these guys stepped up and delivered!
Great communication and prompt delivery once the print was successful.
Of course the backplate fits perfectly, even clicks into place. Printed using PETG CF at a very competitive price.
I Highly recommend them! "
" I needed some very small plastic shelf support brackets, that were no longer provided by the manufacturer of my old SieMatic kitchen units.
Mitchell and Son Design were approached and produced a 3D model and then 3D printed the brackets very quickly, and to an excellent standard.
I highly recommend their service and expertise. "
" Posting on behalf of my father. He had four dust caps made for some Girling brake cylinders for a 1950s Riley 2.5ltr. They were perfect, spot on. Definitely recommended."
" A very nicely made part and these guys are easy to deal with, planning the next job right now."
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Experience the convenience of our 'Instant Online Quote' system for your 3D printing and modeling needs. Whether you're located in the United Kingdom, the United States, or Europe, Mitchell and Son's 3D Printing Services is your ideal choice. With a variety of materials to choose from, our system swiftly provides you with an estimate, saving you time and hassle.
Say goodbye to the complexities of finding the right 3D printing solution and focus on your project. Contact us today, and enjoy excellent customer service during our business hours from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday. Explore unique materials like Resin, Metal, Full Color, and various plastics for your 3D printing projects.
Dwight Anton Mitchell
Sales and Operations Director
Dwight is our Sales and Operations Director, he brings a wealth of expertise to our team. With two decades of corporate sector experience in production support roles and a background as a trained motor mechanic, he has a proven track record of excellence. His career has included positions at renowned companies such as Eaton Aero Space, Wartsila, and Vertu.
Within our organization, Dwight has played a pivotal role in driving our most dynamic and impactful campaigns. His contributions have consistently led to revenue growth, acquisition of new clients, and the establishment of our clients as industry leaders.
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3D Printing Service for Hythe
Have you ever wondered how the magic of three-dimensional objects coming to life from mere digital files happens? Welcome to the realm of 3D printing services, where dreams and designs converge to create tangible realities.
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