3D Printing for the Automotive Industry

• TOOLS JIGS + FIXTURES

  Nissan has implemented BCN3D machines into their business to get ahead of the curve with a dynamic implementation of 3D printed tools, jigs and fixtures in its assembly lines.

• END USE PARTS

  The Team Dynamics BTCC team use their fleet of Raise Pro 2 Plus machines to produce end-use parts for their touring cars from bonnet louvers to air intakes.

• PROTOTYPING

  BAC have used their Ultimaker Pro Bundle to produce both prototype and end-use parts for the Mono R model supercar. 3D Printing using advanced materials they were able to generate heat resistant parts to withstand high-performance conditions.

• REDUNDANT PARTS

  Rob Ellis of Carbotech Ltd used his Ultimaker Pro Bundle and Teton Smart Slice Software to reverse engineer a part for a Westfield car which was no longer commercially available.

• RIGHT TO REPAIR

  Right to repair is a key talking point across the UK and Europe. One example of this initiative being utilised is the repair of a discarded Ford Fiesta headlight. Using the Ultimaker S5 3D Printer we repaired and replaced the parts at a material cost of £2, whereas the cost of a new headlight could be up to £150. This is just one example of how 3D Printing can be applied to create huge cost savings and generate a return on investment. Take a look at the video to see exactly how we did it.

OTRA (On the Road Automotive) are a company based in Chorley Lancashire, specialising in Emergency Service Vehicles. They had encountered an issue with blue lights reflecting back into the car, which has been distracting drivers and posing health and safety risk. Using the 3DAMPS design service our team were able to reverse engineer and improve the current design the print bureau service was then used to take these into production.

The design proved so popular that OTRA needed to print more and decided to purchase the Ultimaker 2 + Connect, to increase production and move this in house. OTRA are now saving £25 per part and produce 4 per day generating fantastic ROI, reducing lead times and being able to quickly print customer-specific products.