Application of the week: CLIPéFIX patented 3D printed fixture

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Ultimaker

June 27, 2025

Welcome back to our application spotlight series, where we showcase real-world 3D printed parts that drive smarter, faster, and more efficient manufacturing. Each week, we highlight practical examples that show how additive manufacturing solves everyday industrial challenges.

This week, we’re spotlighting CLIPéFIX, a patented 3D printed clip designed specifically for fruit farmers to secure irrigation lines across orchard systems - where reliability meets real-world agricultural needs.

Smart farming starts with smart parts

For fruit growers, maintaining consistent irrigation is essential to crop health and yield. But in open-field environments where heat, frost, and UV exposure are daily challenges, even the smallest components—like irrigation clips—need to be engineered for endurance.

That’s where CLIPéFIX comes in.

Developed by DP3D for a fruit farming company, this 3D printed part is designed to hold irrigation pipes firmly in place, ensuring reliable water delivery throughout orchards. Unlike traditional off-the-shelf clips that crack or degrade under harsh conditions, CLIPéFIX was tailored to perform in the field - and last.

Built to endure, batch after batch

Each CLIPéFIX part is printed using ASA material, selected for its:

  • High resistance to UV exposure
  • Stability in extreme temperatures (from -8°C up to 47°C)
  • Long-term durability outdoors

First field-tested in late 2021, CLIPéFIX has since proven itself across multiple harvest cycles. Today, DP3D produces up to 1,000 units in just two weeks, meeting seasonal demand with consistent output and quality.

This production reliability is made possible by the UltiMaker S6, which brings industrial-grade performance without the complexity of traditional manufacturing methods.

Key features and benefits

Here’s why CLIPéFIX stands out as a high-value 3D printing application:

Durable in all seasons ASA material provides excellent UV resistance and thermal stability, ensuring the clip holds up over time - even in the harshest farming conditions.

Patented and field-proven CLIPéFIX isn’t just a prototype - it’s a patented solution tested in real agricultural environments since 2021.

Efficient batch production With the UltiMaker S6, DP3D can confidently deliver up to 1,000 units within two weeks—ideal for managing seasonal planting and maintenance schedules.

Adaptable and scalable Need to tweak the design or scale production? Additive manufacturing makes it easy to adjust without retooling, supporting continuous improvement in the field.

Looking to adopt 3D printing? Get started with the UltiMaker S6

From the lab to the field, the UltiMaker S6 gives designers and manufacturers the tools they need to deliver strong, precise, and reliable parts - faster. Whether you're solving challenges in agriculture or beyond, discover how additive manufacturing can keep your operations growing strong.

UltiMaker S6: Faster, smarter, more accessible.

Explore 3D printing with UltiMaker.

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