May 20/21
3 Ways 3D Printing is Shaping Automotive Design
With an industry worth over $80 billion, it’s no surprise that the US automotive market is at an all-time high. Not only are more and more people getting their licenses, but trends in car engineering and manufacturing are making vehicles more accessible.
One of the best developments in automotive design is the proliferation of 3D printing. Here, we’re going to talk about some of the ways that this technology has shaped 2021’s automotive sector, so read on to learn how auto professionals are using 3D printers to thrive.
1. Prototyping
Prototyping is the greatest way that an innovative design can be tested before it goes to production. Creating a good prototype lets you see how efficiently an auto part will operate and work within the greater framework of a vehicle. It also lets manufacturers refine the design and tweak things before producing a part in bulk.
3D printing makes it much easier to create realistic prototypes because you can print tiny parts. You can refine designs by playing with the size of various parts within your prototype and try new things without commitment. You also will have the ability to switch things up in a completely custom way since 3D printers let you custom-make anything.
2. Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
Facilitating easier production and streamlining designs reduces waste. Those who are building know precisely what they’re making due to the high-quality prototypes they have been provided with. They therefore won’t need to spend time, money, energy, or nonrenewable materials creating parts that can’t be used.
However, quality prototypes aren’t the only way that 3D printing creates less waste in auto manufacturing. When parts are mass-produced in bulk on conventional industrial equipment, a lot of excess plastic and metal goes to waste. Machines are also inefficient and use up a lot of electricity and fuel.
3D printers use a very small amount of electricity to operate. They also don’t leave behind unusable plastic or metal that must be thrown away or recycled. Manufacturers can create other parts from the leftover materials surrounding where a part was printed.
3. Customization
All consumers look for different features in their vehicles, so it’s imperative that manufacturers sell multiple designs for any given car part. Those who create cars can also include different features in various models to set them apart from one another. This gives customers the flexibility that they crave when getting a vehicle (or new parts).
If you want to take things a step further, using a 3D printer allows you to create fully custom car parts that precisely match consumer specifications. This will set your designs apart from the competition and build a good reputation for your brand.
Automotive Design Beyond 3D Printing
While there are many technologies that are streamlining the auto engineering industry, 3D printing is one of the best. Reach out to us with any inquiries that you have about 3D printing in automotive design.
We offer a plethora of services including manufacturing, engineering, assembly, and sequencing. You can also apply for auto careers on our website, so feel free to ask us for help with your application. Since we’re committed to making auto manufacturing a simple and efficient process, we look forward to hearing from you soon.