Online Manufacturing goes to space

Online Manufacturing by FACTUREE is exploring new spheres as Space Applications Services, a specialist in space technology, decided to use the B2B platform for procuring complex components. These include parts for building prototypes and space qualification models used in aerospace applications. The CNC parts are manufactured with the highest level of precision and will be delivered with short turnaround times. 

Space Applications Services NV/SA, with headquarters in the Brussels region and a subsidiary, Aerospace Applications North America, in Houston, Texas (USA), specializes in the development of systems and software for the European Space Agency (ESA), national space agencies, and the aerospace industry. The company develops international solutions and technologies for manned and unmanned spacecraft, Earth observation, science, exploration, and communication in this sector.

Special components needed for prototyping in robotics

The aerospace sector is of great importance for Space Applications Services. To ensure the highest quality and reliability in this highly sensitive area, complex components are required for prototyping and what are known as space qualification models.

Dr.-Ing. Torsten Siedel, Project Manager at Space Applications Services NV/SA, explains, “We had to make changes in how we procure these components, as the previous supplier no longer met our requirements in terms of material quality, delivery times, and pricing. We then thoroughly researched providers and decided to collaborate with FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer.”

FACTUREE is a trademark of cwmk GmbH and has a wide production network with around 2,000 manufacturing partners in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology. More than 15,000 machines are constantly available for projects, ensuring timely deliveries. All partners comply with the requirements of a continuous data-driven, ISO 9001 certified quality management system. 

Online Manufacturing of high-quality CNC-machined parts

FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer supplies high-quality CNC parts to Space Applications Services, enabling the company to use a particularly modern form of procurement. With its online network model, FACTUREE is in a position to provide custom components manufactured by specialized providers with a high level of precision and ensure fast delivery. As the only contract partner involved, FACTUREE is responsible for selecting the most suitable manufacturer and handling the entire process.

The procurement process for components is straightforward – engineers from Space Applications Services create drawings and 3D data that are submitted to FACTUREE. The Online Manufacturer then generates a quote within one to two days. After the order is placed and delivered, all parts undergo a quality inspection at Space Applications Services. Any reworking required is quickly implemented by FACTUREE.

“For more than two years, FACTUREE has supplied us with high-quality CNC parts for various applications and projects. In addition to the high quality, we appreciate the fast delivery times and attractive pricing. The professional, uncomplicated communication also allows us to solve problems quickly, again underscoring the reliability,” says Dr.-Ing. Torsten Siedel, adding “Considering our positive business development that will lead to an increasing demand for CNC parts, we will certainly continue to turn to FACTUREE with corresponding orders in the future.”

cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 15000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.