In high-speed manufacturing, even the smallest part can have a massive impact. One such example? Guide rails used in bottle packaging lines. These seemingly simple components play a critical role in keeping production moving smoothly—and now, 3D printing is transforming how they’re made.

At Paragon Visual, we’re seeing firsthand how additive manufacturing is enabling faster, more flexible solutions across industries. A perfect example comes from a recent case study featured by Ultimaker, where 3D printed guide rails helped streamline production in a hygiene product bottling facility.

Why Guide Rails Matter

Guide rails are used on conveyor lines to keep bottles in position as they move through the packaging process. Traditional manufacturing methods require custom rails to be machined—often with long lead times and high costs. When a new bottle shape is introduced or production changes, replacing or modifying these rails can delay output.

3D Printing to the Rescue

With industrial 3D printers like the UltiMaker Factor 4, guide rails can be printed in-house using high-strength polymers. Here’s what that means for your operations:

• 🕒 Rapid Turnaround: Print replacement rails in hours—not weeks.
• 💡 Customization: Adjust dimensions and designs on the fly to fit new product lines.
• 💰 Cost Savings: Eliminate expensive CNC machining or outsourcing.
• ♻️ Sustainability: Minimize waste by producing only what you need, when you need it.

Real-World Results

In the Ultimaker case study, a packaging company 3D printed custom guide rails tailored to a new hygiene product bottle. The result? Smooth bottle flow, reduced jams, and increased uptime—without waiting weeks for a new part.

This is the kind of agile solution that’s making 3D printing a must-have tool for manufacturers.

Is Your Line Ready for the Future?

If you’re managing high-throughput packaging or production systems, integrating 3D printing into your workflow can unlock massive efficiencies. Whether it’s custom rails, jigs, fixtures, or tooling—we can help you find the right printer and material for the job.

Explore our industrial 3D printer lineup, including the UltiMaker Factor 4, and see how Paragon Visual supports manufacturers with tailored additive manufacturing solutions.

📩 Let’s talk about how 3D printing can improve your packaging lines.

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UltiMaker Factor 4 Industrial 3D Printer – High-Performance Additive Manufacturing

$20,526.32 Original price was: $20,526.32.$19,500.00Current price is: $19,500.00.

The UltiMaker Factor 4 is a powerful and reliable 3D printer designed to make production easier and more efficient. With advanced features like dual-material printing and a temperature-controlled build chamber, it delivers consistent, high-quality results for even the most complex projects. Its automated material handling system ensures smooth operation, while its sturdy design makes it perfect for any professional workspace. Whether you’re creating prototypes or small production runs, the Factor 4 is built to keep your workflow seamless and hassle-free.

UltiMaker Factor 4 Industrial 3D Printer – High-Performance Additive Manufacturing quantity

Add to cart Request A Custom Quote

SKU: 62-234991

Category: 3D Printers, UltiMaker

Tags: 3D Printer, ABS, CPE, Nylon, PC, PETG, PLA, PP, S7, Tough PLA, TPU 95A, UltiMaker

Source: Ultimaker – Application of the Week: Guide Rail

HP DesignJet Cash-In & Trade-Up Promotion – April to June 2025

Now is the perfect time to upgrade to an HP DesignJet large-format printer. Whether you need stunning color photos, eye-catching POP signs, vibrant backlit displays, detailed CAD drawings, GIS maps, or professional presentations, there’s an HP DesignJet printer designed to meet your business needs.

Contact Paragon today for promotion details terms and expert advice. Call: 321-346-8400

Purchase or lease a qualified product between April 1st, 2025, through June 30th, 2025

Eligible trade-in products:

Any Canon, ENCAD, Epson, KIP, OCE, Seiko, Ricoh or Xerox 36- inch or greater technical, graphics or LED printer, MFP or copier
• HP DesignJet 200/220/230/250 36-inch or 42-inch series printer (24” series printers not eligible)
• HP DesignJet 330/350 series printer
• HP DesignJet 430/450/455/488 series printer
• HP DesignJet 500/500ps/510 42-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet T520/T525/T530 36-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 600/610/650c series printer
• HP DesignJet T610/T620 series printer
• HP DesignJet 700/750/755 series printer
• HP DesignJet T730 Printer
• HP DesignJet T770 series printer
• HP DesignJet T790/T795 series printer
• HP DesignJet 800/800ps 42-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 815MFP/820MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T920/T930 series printer
• HP DesignJet 1050/1055 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1100/T1100ps/T1120/T1120ps series printer
• HP DesignJet T1100MFP/T1120MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T1200 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1200 HD MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T1300 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1500/T1530 series printer
• HP DesignJet T2300 series printer
• HP DesignJet T2500 MFP/T2530 MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T3500 36-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 4000/4000ps/4500/4500ps series printer
• HP DesignJet 4020/4520 series printer
• HP DesignJet 4500 MFP/4520 MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T7100 series printer
• HP DesignJet T7200 Production Printer
• HP DesignJet 2000cp/2500cp/2800cp series printer
• HP DesignJet Z2100 series printer
• HP DesignJet Z2600 PostScript® Printer
• HP DesignJet 3000cp/3500cp/3800cp series printer
• HP DesignJet Z3100/Z3100ps series printer
• HP DesignJet Z3200 series printer
• HP DesignJet 5000/5000ps/5500/5500ps series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5200 PostScript® Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5400 PostScript® series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5600 PostScript® Printer
• HP DesignJet Z6100/Z6100ps Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6200 Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6600/Z6610 Production series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6800/Z6810 Photo Production series printer
• HP DesignJet SD Pro MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet HD Pro MFP series printer

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Cut Costs, Improve Efficiency, and Minimize Downtime

In today’s fast-moving food and beverage industry, manufacturers are facing rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and the need for faster production cycles. Traditional manufacturing struggles to keep up with these demands, leading to costly delays and inefficiencies.

That’s why 3D printing for food and beverage manufacturers is becoming a game-changer—especially with UltiMaker 3D printing solutions. From custom machine parts to safety tools, 3D printing helps businesses stay competitive by offering on-demand production, reduced costs, and faster turnaround times.

The Power of UltiMaker 3D Printing in Manufacturing

Leading food and beverage manufacturers are already using UltiMaker 3D printers to enhance production efficiency and streamline operations. Here’s how:

✅ Lower Costs & Faster Repairs – Print essential parts in-house instead of waiting weeks for suppliers.
✅ Minimize Downtime – Keep production lines running by fabricating critical machine components on demand.
✅ Improve Safety & Ergonomics – Custom lockout-tagout (LOTO) devices, protective covers, and ergonomic tools help prevent workplace hazards.
✅ Reduce Inventory Waste – No more overstocking replacement parts—print only what you need, when you need it.

Real Results: How 3D Printing Saves Time and Money

Many manufacturers have already integrated UltiMaker 3D printing into their operations and are seeing measurable benefits, including:

🔹 Up to 90% cost savings by 3D printing custom tools and replacement parts.
🔹 Faster production changeovers by printing high-performance components on-site.
🔹 Lead times reduced from weeks to hours for essential machine parts.
🔹 Increased equipment uptime, reducing costly unplanned stoppages.

With on-demand 3D printing, businesses are no longer at the mercy of supplier delays or expensive OEM parts. Instead, they can print customized, high-quality components quickly and affordably.

What to Look for in a 3D Printing System

When investing in an industrial 3D printing solution, key factors to consider include:

🔸 Reliability – A robust system that delivers consistent results day after day.
🔸 Ease of Use – Intuitive software and plug-and-play functionality for seamless adoption.
🔸 Material Versatility – A wide range of compatible materials for high-strength industrial applications.
🔸 Scalability – The ability to expand production capacity as demand grows.

Paragon Visual: Your 3D Printing Partner

At Paragon Visual, we provide UltiMaker 3D printing solutions to help food and beverage manufacturers cut costs, improve efficiency, and minimize downtime. Whether you need custom machine parts, safety tools, or high-performance manufacturing components, our cost-effective 3D printing solutions deliver fast ROI and long-term savings.

Start Printing Smarter Today

Ready to revolutionize your production process? Discover how UltiMaker 3D printers can transform your manufacturing operations with cost-effective, on-demand 3D printing solutions.

👉 Explore Our 3D Printing Solutions Here

Discover the Best 3D Printing Material for Your Projects: PETG, CPE, or CPE+?

Choosing the right material for your 3D printing projects can feel like navigating a maze. With options like PETG, CPE, and CPE+, each offering unique benefits, how do you decide? Let’s break it down and help you find the perfect match for your next creation.

Meet the Contenders

• PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified): Think of PETG as the reliable all-rounder. It’s easy to print, visually appealing, and less brittle than its PET counterpart. Perfect for those who want great results without the hassle.
• CPE (Co-Polyester): CPE is like PETG’s sporty cousin. It’s a bit more robust, offering good stiffness and wear resistance. If you need a balance between printability and strength, CPE is your go-to.
• CPE+: Meet the heavyweight champion. Made from PCTG, CPE+ boasts superior wear resistance and toughness. It’s the toughest to print, but for demanding projects, it’s worth the effort.

Printability Showdown

• PETG: The crowd favorite for its ease of use. PETG handles bridging and overhangs like a pro, making it ideal for detailed visual projects. Plus, it comes in a rainbow of colors, including translucent and fluorescent options.
• CPE: Slightly more challenging than PETG, but still manageable. CPE offers a good mix of printability and mechanical strength.
• CPE+: The most finicky of the bunch. CPE+ demands precise settings and conditions, but the results are unmatched for high-stress applications.

Strength and Durability

• PETG: Offers a great balance of stiffness and durability, making it a versatile choice for many projects.
• CPE: Adds a bit more stiffness and wear resistance, ideal for parts that need to withstand some stress.
• CPE+: The toughest material, perfect for parts that need to endure high wear and tear.

Chemical and Temperature Resistance

• Chemical Resistance: All three materials resist alcohols, water, acids, and bases well. CPE+ leads the pack, followed by CPE.
• Temperature Resistance: CPE+ can handle up to 100°C, making it the best for high-temperature environments. CPE and PETG are suitable for up to 78°C and 76°C, respectively.

Making Your Choice

If you’re using CPE and considering a switch to PETG, you might find PETG offers better printability without sacrificing mechanical properties. However, if you need top-notch chemical resistance, CPE or CPE+ might be your best bet.

In conclusion, the choice between PETG, CPE, and CPE+ depends on your specific needs. Whether you prioritize ease of printing, mechanical strength, or resistance to chemicals and temperature, understanding these differences will help you select the best material for your 3D printing projects.

Now is the perfect time to upgrade to an HP DesignJet large-format printer. Whether you need stunning color photos, eye-catching POP signs, vibrant backlit displays, detailed CAD drawings, GIS maps, or professional presentations, there’s an HP DesignJet printer designed to meet your business needs.

Contact Paragon today for promotion details terms and expert advice. Call: 321-346-8400

Purchase or lease a qualified product between January 1st, 2025, through March 31st, 2025

Eligible trade-in products:

Any Canon, ENCAD, Epson, KIP, OCE, Seiko, Ricoh or Xerox 36- inch or greater technical, graphics or LED printer, MFP or copier
• HP DesignJet 200/220/230/250 36-inch or 42-inch series printer (24” series printers not eligible)
• HP DesignJet 330/350 series printer
• HP DesignJet 430/450/455/488 series printer
• HP DesignJet 500/500ps/510 42-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet T520/T525/T530 36-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 600/610/650c series printer
• HP DesignJet T610/T620 series printer
• HP DesignJet 700/750/755 series printer
• HP DesignJet T730 Printer
• HP DesignJet T770 series printer
• HP DesignJet T790/T795 series printer
• HP DesignJet 800/800ps 42-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 815MFP/820MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T920/T930 series printer
• HP DesignJet 1050/1055 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1100/T1100ps/T1120/T1120ps series printer
• HP DesignJet T1100MFP/T1120MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T1200 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1200 HD MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T1300 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1500/T1530 series printer
• HP DesignJet T2300 series printer
• HP DesignJet T2500 MFP/T2530 MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T3500 36-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 4000/4000ps/4500/4500ps series printer
• HP DesignJet 4020/4520 series printer
• HP DesignJet 4500 MFP/4520 MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T7100 series printer
• HP DesignJet T7200 Production Printer
• HP DesignJet 2000cp/2500cp/2800cp series printer
• HP DesignJet Z2100 series printer
• HP DesignJet Z2600 PostScript® Printer
• HP DesignJet 3000cp/3500cp/3800cp series printer
• HP DesignJet Z3100/Z3100ps series printer
• HP DesignJet Z3200 series printer
• HP DesignJet 5000/5000ps/5500/5500ps series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5200 PostScript® Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5400 PostScript® series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5600 PostScript® Printer
• HP DesignJet Z6100/Z6100ps Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6200 Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6600/Z6610 Production series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6800/Z6810 Photo Production series printer
• HP DesignJet SD Pro MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet HD Pro MFP series printer

Contact us today to learn more!

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When investing in an FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) 3D printer:

One of the most important steps is analyzing your requirements. Whether you’re creating prototypes, functional parts, or production runs, understanding your goals upfront will ensure you select the right machine for your needs. In this post, we’ll explore a critical factor: build volume—what it is, why it matters, and how to decide what’s right for you.

Step 1: Define Your 3D Printing Needs

Before diving into technical specifications, consider your goals:

• What will you print? Are you focusing on prototypes, detailed models, or functional end-use parts?
• What matters more: aesthetics or functionality? Different goals may require different levels of precision, speed, or material compatibility.
• What’s your production volume? Do you need single, large prints or the ability to print multiple smaller parts in batches?

Answering these questions will help narrow down your options.

Step 2: Understand Build Volume

The build volume (or build envelope) is the maximum area a 3D printer can produce in a single print. Think of it as the size of the 3D printer’s workspace—it dictates the largest object you can print.

For example, the Ultimaker S5 offers a build surface of 330 x 240 mm (13 x 9.4 inches) and can print parts up to 300 mm (11.8 inches) in height.

Why Build Volume Matters

Choosing the right build volume can make a big difference in your workflow and bottom line:

1. Print Larger Parts
   If your projects require large-scale prototypes or single-piece models, a printer with a larger build volume is essential.
2. Batch Production for Efficiency
   Even if you print smaller parts, a larger build plate allows you to produce parts in batches, saving both time and operational costs. Instead of running multiple small prints, you can optimize workflows with a single large job.
3. Cost Considerations
   Larger 3D printers often come with a higher price tag, but they can be a worthwhile investment. By increasing efficiency and reducing the need for outsourcing, you could save money in the long run.

Step 3: Plan for Your Needs

When choosing your ideal build volume:

• Consider the largest part you print on a regular basis.
• For occasional oversized parts, you have two options:
  1. Split your design into smaller components and assemble them post-printing.
  2. Outsource the larger print job.

By carefully planning for your needs, you’ll strike the perfect balance between cost, efficiency, and capabilities.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right FFF 3D printer starts with defining your requirements and understanding critical factors like build volume. Whether you need single large-scale parts or high-volume batch printing, the right printer can unlock new opportunities for your business.

Ready to take the next step in your 3D printing journey? You can use the form below to contact us and explore the best solutions tailored to your needs.

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Paragon Visual Joins OMNIA Partners – Streamlined Procurement for the Public Sector

Paragon Visual is now an authorized subcontractor for OMNIA Partners, the largest and most experienced cooperative purchasing organization serving the public sector. This partnership allows eligible entities, including K-12 schools, universities, and government agencies, to access pre-negotiated, competitively priced contracts without the complexity of traditional bidding processes.

What is OMNIA Partners?

OMNIA Partners Public Sector provides cooperative purchasing contracts that simplify procurement for educational institutions, state agencies, and local governments. By utilizing OMNIA’s vetted and pre-approved contracts, organizations can save time, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with procurement regulations.

Why Choose OMNIA Partners Contracts?

• Time-Saving: Skip the lengthy bidding process with pre-approved vendor contracts.
• Cost-Effective: Access competitively negotiated pricing for visual communication and printing solutions.
• Trusted Procurement: All OMNIA contracts comply with state and local government purchasing regulations.
• Ideal for Education & Government: Serving K-12 schools, higher education, and state/local agencies.

Paragon Visual & OMNIA Partners – Authorized Subcontractor

Paragon Visual is an authorized subcontractor under OMNIA Contract R200803. This allows us to offer our high-quality printing and visual communication products through a streamlined, compliant purchasing process.

How to Get Started

• Already an OMNIA Partners member? You can start purchasing immediately through Contract R200803.
• Not a member yet? Join for free to gain access to exclusive cooperative pricing.

Get in Touch

✔ Want to learn more? Contact us today to see how Paragon Visual & OMNIA Partners can help streamline your procurement needs.

Paragon Visual is your trusted partner for public sector procurement through OMNIA Partners – ensuring cost-effective, compliant, and seamless purchasing solutions.

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Link to: Omnia Partners

There’s never been a better time to upgrade to an HP DesignJet large-format printer. Whether you’re producing high-quality color photos, POP signs, backlit, CAD drawings, GIS maps, or presentations, there’s an HP DesignJet printer that’s the perfect fit for your business.

Contact Paragon today for promotion details terms and expert advice. Call: 321-346-8400

Purchase or lease a qualified product between April 1st 2024 through June 30th 2024

See the new Promos by clicking here: HP DesignJet Cash In & Trade Up January through March 2025

Eligible trade-in products:

Any Canon, ENCAD, Epson, KIP, OCE, Seiko, Ricoh or Xerox 36- inch or greater technical, graphics or LED printer, MFP or copier
• HP DesignJet 200/220/230/250 36-inch or 42-inch series printer (24” series printers not eligible)
• HP DesignJet 330/350 series printer
• HP DesignJet 430/450/455/488 series printer
• HP DesignJet 500/500ps/510 42-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet T520/T525/T530 36-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 600/610/650c series printer
• HP DesignJet T610/T620 series printer
• HP DesignJet 700/750/755 series printer
• HP DesignJet T730 Printer
• HP DesignJet T770 series printer
• HP DesignJet T790/T795 series printer
• HP DesignJet 800/800ps 42-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 815MFP/820MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T920/T930 series printer
• HP DesignJet 1050/1055 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1100/T1100ps/T1120/T1120ps series printer
• HP DesignJet T1100MFP/T1120MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T1200 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1200 HD MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T1300 series printer
• HP DesignJet T1500/T1530 series printer
• HP DesignJet T2300 series printer
• HP DesignJet T2500 MFP/T2530 MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T3500 36-inch series printer
• HP DesignJet 4000/4000ps/4500/4500ps series printer
• HP DesignJet 4020/4520 series printer
• HP DesignJet 4500 MFP/4520 MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet T7100 series printer
• HP DesignJet T7200 Production Printer
• HP DesignJet 2000cp/2500cp/2800cp series printer
• HP DesignJet Z2100 series printer
• HP DesignJet Z2600 PostScript® Printer
• HP DesignJet 3000cp/3500cp/3800cp series printer
• HP DesignJet Z3100/Z3100ps series printer
• HP DesignJet Z3200 series printer
• HP DesignJet 5000/5000ps/5500/5500ps series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5200 PostScript® Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5400 PostScript® series printer
• HP DesignJet Z5600 PostScript® Printer
• HP DesignJet Z6100/Z6100ps Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6200 Photo series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6600/Z6610 Production series printer
• HP DesignJet Z6800/Z6810 Photo Production series printer
• HP DesignJet SD Pro MFP series printer
• HP DesignJet HD Pro MFP series printer

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3D printing at the speed of innovation.

The MakerBot Sketch Sprint sets a new standard in classroom productivity with its impressive print speed of 250 mm/s. That’s a staggering 500% increase over the industry standard of 50 mm/s. This rapid speed allows educators to streamline their projects and maximize classroom time. With the ability to produce high-quality prints faster than ever, teachers can effectively manage multiple assignments and engage students in hands-on learning experiences. Whether it’s for collaborative projects, prototypes, or demonstrations, the Sketch Sprint empowers educators to keep the momentum going in the classroom without the downtime typically associated with 3D printing

Comprehensive Safety Design

Safety is prioritized with a fully enclosed design that creates a secure printing environment for students, minimizing risks during operation.

• Safety Locks:
  • Our Printer Lock feature lets teachers control who can use the printer, keeping it safe and restricted to authorized users.

• Fully Enclosed Design:
  • The fully enclosed structure reduces the risk of accidents and keeps hands safely away from moving parts and hot components.

• Robust Build:
  • A well-built structure helps minimize noise and distractions, creating a better classroom environment that is conducive to learning.

Safety Certifications & User Education

Supported by industry safety certifications and comprehensive user education resources, educators can feel confident and supported throughout their 3D printing journey.

• Industry-Standard Certifications:
  • Equipped with industry-standard safety certifications, ensuring compliance with educational regulations.

• Comprehensive Training Resources:
  • Access to comprehensive training resources helps educators and students understand best practices for safe 3D printing.

• Support and Updates:
  • Ongoing updates provide the latest safety protocols and educational tools for teachers.

Fully Enclosed Design:

The enclosed structure protects students from moving parts and reduces exposure to hot surfaces.

Active HEPA and Carbon Filtration:

The integrated filtration system helps to maintain clean air quality, making it safer for students during printing by capturing particles and odors during printing.

Printer Lock:

This feature allows teachers to control access to the printer, preventing unauthorized use and ensuring that only trained individuals operate the equipment.

Certifications for Peace of Mind:

The Sketch Sprint is compliant with a range of safety certifications that meet rigorous standards for educational environments.

Classroom-Friendly Filament:

The Sprint printer uses PLA and Tough PLA, which are safe, easy to work with, and less likely to emit harmful fumes, adding an extra layer of safety during printing.

Comprehensive Training Resources:

MakerBot provides detailed safety guidelines and training materials to help teachers implement safe operating procedures.

Want to learn more? We would love to help!

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Paragon Visual is an authorized subcontractor on the OMNIA R200803 Contract – Learn More