When asked ‘who holds the record for the world’s largest 3D printing run?’ most people would point to the technology’s high-profile users. Apple, Meta… maybe BMW would spring to mind.
But they’d be wrong, the actual world record holder is a little unexpected. According to a recent report, it’s Chanel who is responsible for the biggest ever additive manufacturing use case, creating 22 million mascara brushes with the help of fellow French firm Erpro Group.
Chanel first patented its 3D printed brush, designed to enhance adhesion and allow for precise application, 11 years ago. Since then, it has worked with the Enpro Group to put this into mass production at the Enpro 3D factory, where up to 250,000 units are created each week.
Made from PA11 material using laser sintering, the ‘Le Volume Révolution de Chanel’ brush is one of a dozen designed for the E.Y.E service, Chanel’s bespoke applicator program.
With the Enpro Group’s facility offering metal and plastic 3D printing, as well as extensive post-processing services, it seems like Chanel has found the perfect production partner.
It may not be the sole 3D printing use case of its kind – L’Oréal and Neutrogena have already experimented here – but its scale is worth applauding. Who knows where the technology’s next record-breaking application will be? We could be in for another surprise.
