Multi-disciplinary engineering services provider Additive Engineering Concepts (AEC) helps companies across industries to design, develop, and produce tools and related products using a range of technologies and services.

Based in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng the company says it focusses on aligning global engineering standards with local manufacturing capabilities to deliver solutions specifically suited to the needs of the African market.

It provides a range of engineering and manufacturing solutions to help optimise production, manage complex projects and reduce costs. AEC products and services include tooling supply, mechanical design, project management, and production consulting.

Tooling supply includes:

• Carbide inserts and tooling:  wear-resistant options for turning, milling, and drilling
• Milling cutters and end mills: precision tools for smooth surface finishes and tight tolerances
• Tool selection support: tailored recommendations based on a specific machine, material, and application.

The company’s engineering design service encompasses concept development, computer-aided design (CAD) modelling, mechanical design, packaging design, and design validation.

Services include:

• CAD and 3-D modelling
• Concept-to-prototype design
• Design for manufacturability, or DFM
• First article inspection, or FAI

AEC offers a project management service that spans planning and scheduling to supplier coordination and on-site execution. Its manufacturing consulting service aims to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and streamline production processes by identifying inefficiencies, recommending improvements and ensuring more efficient manufacturing processes. It also offers hands-on technical assistance and process support, such as production troubleshooting, tooling setup assistance and custom fixture and jig solutions.

Procurement services help companies source components, equipment, and materials both locally and internationally and includes quoting, logistics and supplier vetting.

In addition, AEC provides a rapid prototyping service that helps companies to quickly validate designs and test form, fit, and function before committing to full production.

The company says its production-grade composite 3-D printing capabilities create precision-made end-use parts that are strong and durable. Using materials such as Onyx, carbon fibre, Kevlar and other reinforced materials, AEC produces functional components that can replace machined parts.