TRANSFORMING THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Additive manufacturing has already ingrained itself at several steps of the production line, even among Indian automakers. Having started in the design and prototyping lab, 3D printing is now showing its value to automakers in several ways.

- Rajiv Bajaj

Usually, the conversation about 3D printing (Additive Manufacturing) quickly escalates to its massive potential and the amazing things we will be able to completely 3D print in the future. While it is a fascinating thought exercise, additive manufacturing is not the sci-fi technology many believe it to be, but a real application that is already making a difference across several industries.

In the automobile industry, additive manufacturing has already ingrained itself at several steps of the production line, even among Indian automakers. It may have started in the design and prototyping lab but in the past few years, 3D printing has shown its value to automakers in several ways. Although the potential for future uses such as creating a fully 3D printed car is tempting, the technology has a more immediate value for car manufacturers — the ability to quickly print any component or part on demand.

Traditionally, car parts and spare components require both production and storage costs. Over time, this means cars stop being serviced, inventory costs soar, and production must be diverted to spare parts. With the potential to solve this major pain point, 3D printing is showing how it is already central to the auto industry’s future.

Brands such as Stratasys create prototypes, manufacturing tools and production parts for leading automakers including Maruti Suzuki, Ashok Leyland, Honda, Mahindra and auto component maker Uno Minda, which has helped them significantly bring downtime and cost involved in day-to-day operations.

THE COST OF BEING PREPARED