The automotive industry has been using 3D printing for as long as any industry. The technology has been showing its transformative powers in many different applications, allowing companies within the industry to 3D print custom parts and tools overnight that optimize production processes the next day. With Ultimaker’s flexible and easy-to-use platform, automotive OEMs, suppliers, and aftermarket are able to increase production efficiency, bypass supply chain challenges, and increase sustainability.

What Automotive Parts Can You 3D Print?

The technology enables companies to create 3D printed tools, jigs, and fixtures in rapid succession. This means machinery can be set up more quickly, variation is reduced during fitting and assembly, and production processes are more streamlined. By using tough, impact-resistant materials such as ABS or CPE, businesses like Ford can print tools fit for a busy production line, whenever they’re required. Download the Ultimaker infographic for automotive applications.

Manufacturing:

Discover the ease and efficiency that 3D printing brings to the factory floor. Streamline retooling and accelerate assembly times, while achieving higher levels of precision. 3D print problem-solving parts and tools that increase productivity and overall equipment efficiency (OEE).

• Assembly Tools: Incorporate poka-yoke design principles to speed up and mistake-proof complex actions with custom ergonomics – such as product assembly or machine maintenance.
• Quality Tools: Boost product quality by accurately and affordably 3D printing tools and gauges for every QA process using low-friction or non-marring materials.
• Transport Tools: Any conveyor or production line can be fitted with impact-resistant 3D printed parts. Two-color dual extrusion prints can wear down and indicate when they need replacement.

End-Use Parts:

Go beyond rapid prototyping and deploy 3D printing applications for on-demand manufacturing. Custom one-offs, replacement parts, or even small-batch production runs. Customized 3D printing gives businesses unrivaled manufacturing flexibility and versatility. Cut tooling costs, lead times, and purchasing processes with decentralized, on-site printing. Watch our webinar on 3D printing end-use parts with Ultimaker.

• Custom Parts: Customize endlessly to meet all your needs. Bespoke, one-off parts without the cost penalty of switching to other processes. 3D printing’s versatility offers huge benefits. 3D print a short run of custom parts to reduce costs and lead time.
• Replacement Parts: Cut out replacement part supply chains and purchasing processes and put 3D printed components into your customers’ hands by printing them on-site.

Product Development:

Experience rapid prototyping for yourself with professional 3D printing solutions. Print. Test. Gauge response. Repeat. While shrinking lead times and slashing costs. Tap into the power of 3D printing for prototyping and go to market with new products faster and with more confidence. Evaluate designs, check shape and form, test prototypes, and gauge user response. As often and as quickly as you need.

• Functional Prototypes: Evaluate fit, function, and manufacturability under real-life conditions. Make necessary design adjustments in next to no time and at almost no added cost.

3 Reasons to Consider 3D Printing with Ultimaker:

Ultimaker 3D printers allow you to create custom parts quickly and easily, gain future-ready skills, make production more efficient, and promote innovation and sustainability. Watch the video!

Digital Transformation:

Secure Your Future in the Industry

Ultimaker’s 3D printing platform is incredibly easy to use. It allows automotive engineers or operators to keep their skills relevant and valuable as the Automotive industry continues to evolve.

3D printing a digital inventory of parts on demand also means you can save costs on storage and warehousing. Securely share the files with multiple locations to enable distributed manufacturing.

Sustainability:

Soften Your Impact on the Environment

Additive manufacturing results in less wasted material, plus lighter weight and more complex geometries than traditional subtractive methods. Tools can be designed to be modular so only parts that wear need to be replaced.

And when those replacements are needed, they can be 3D printed locally on site and on demand, which in turn, cuts down on carbon emissions and packaging for shipping and logistics.

Customization:

The Parts You Need, When You Need Them

When OEMs and suppliers make engineering changes, 3D printing allows you to respond faster. You can created prototypes and placeholder parts with more iterations and a faster time to market.

In-house 3D printing also allows you to work more closely with operators. Collaborate on designs and optimize custom tools that improve assembly station ergonomics and increase their satisfaction and productivity.

Start 3D Printing Today:

There’s never been a better time to drive efficiency in your automotive business. Click below to learn more about 3D printing application in the automotive industry!

Discover Automotive Applications