According to Reuters, General Motors (GM) said on Tuesday that it will use 3D-printed components to accomplish its goals of incorporating alternative-fuel vehicles into its global product portfolio.
GM’s 3D Auto Parts Initiative
The top American automaker announced a partnership with top design software provider Autodesk to leverage 3D printing technology to create lightweight auto parts. Company representatives presented a 3D-printed seat bracket made with stainless steel and Autodesk technology this week. This novel way of production allows for the incorporation of a single item, as opposed to standard manufacturing processes that call for the involvement of around eight different components and various suppliers. In addition to being 40% lighter and 20% stronger, the result resembled a fusion of “fine art and science fiction“.
Prior Use and Future Plans:
For some years, GM has used 3D printers to create prototype parts. With the goal to generate “thousands of parts on a large scale” over the following five years, it is projected that these new 3D-printed components will be used in high-end motorsport applications in the coming year. This information was provided to Reuters by Kevin Quinn, Director of Additive Design and Manufacturing at GM.
Read : SEC Form S-3D Definition
GM’s use of 3D printing for prototypes
Over the past few years, GM has used 3D printers to create prototypes for various projects. According to Kevin Quinn, Director of Additive Design and Manufacturing at Automaker, there are plans to produce “thousands of components” with technological advancements over the next five years. New 3D-printed parts are anticipated to debut in high-end motorsports applications in the upcoming year.
The 3D printing-based additive manufacturing sector is focusing on large-scale production and overcoming obstacles with “repetition and strength,” according to Bob Yanse, Director of Manufacturing at Autodesc. Autodesc has experience investigating several kinds of part design using cloud computing and AI-based techniques.
Leading automakers declared last year that they intended to release 20 new electric and fuel cell cars globally by 2023. Although there is increasing interest in electric and battery-powered cars, their widespread acceptance is hampered by their short range. Lighter car parts can help keep them efficient and increase fuel efficiency in this way.
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3D printing technology that has promise
The process of 3D printing, sometimes referred to as additive manufacturing, involves adding liquefied material precisely and level by level. Because only the essential amount is added, there is a huge reduction in waste. This contrasts with conventional subtractive techniques, where the procedure entails starting with a sizable block of material and gradually deleting it to reach the desired form and size.
“GM is not the only company implementing revolutionary technology. Prior to this, Ford Motor Company (F) has been experimenting with 3D printing technology, and General Electric (GE) had stated that it would improve its manufacturing processes using 3D printers.
Not only has GM adopted cutting-edge technology, but other companies have done the same. General Electric (GE) had previously stated that it intended to use 3D printing technology to improve its manufacturing operations. Similar to other companies, Ford Motor Company (F) has been actively experimenting with 3D printing methods since last year.
Read : 5 Biggest 3D Printing Companies
FAQs Regarding GM’s Use of 3D Printing in the Automotive Industry
1. Why does General Motors use 3D-printed parts in its products?
General Motors (GM) wants to more effectively incorporate alternative-fuel vehicles into its global product lineup. GM can produce lightweight auto parts that improve the effectiveness and performance of their automobiles by using 3D printing technology.
2. How is GM and Autodesk working together on this project?
To take use of 3D printing for the design and production of automobile components, GM has teamed with Autodesk, a top provider of design tools. Through this partnership, GM is able to create cutting-edge components like the seat bracket that was 3D printed, showcasing the possibilities of this strategy.
