Ford tests large-scale 3D printing for future vehicles

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Ford Motor Company is exploring how large one-piece car parts could be printed for prototyping and future production vehicles, as the first auto maker to pilot the Stratasys Infinite Build 3D printer. The new 3D print system is located at Ford’s Research and Innovation Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

Capable of printing car parts of practically any shape or length, the Stratasys technology could be a breakthrough for vehicle manufacturing, providing a more efficient and affordable way to produce tooling, prototype parts, or components at lower volumes.

“With the Infinite Build technology, we are now able to print large tools, fixtures and components, making us more nimble in design iterations,” said Ellen Lee, Ford technical leader for additive manufacturing research. “We’re excited to have early access to Stratasys’ new technology in order to help steer the development of large-scale printing for automotive applications and requirements.”

March 15, 2017

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John joined UKi Media & Events in 2012 and has worked across a range of B2B titles within the company's automotive, marine and entertainment divisions. Currently editor of Automotive Testing Technology International, Crash Test Technology International and Electric & Hybrid Marine Technology International, John co-ordinates the day-the-day operations of each magazine, from commissioning and writing to editing and signing-off, as well managing web content. Aside from the magazines, John also serves as co-chairman of the annual Electric & Hybrid Marine Awards and can be found sniffing out stories throughout the halls of several of UKI's industry-leading expo events.




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