Automotive industry / SLM Process (Metal 3D Printing)
Utilizing the SLM process to 3D print stainless steel components for automotive industry clients, enabling rapid testing of automotive prototypes.
A client in the automotive industry required stainless steel components delivered as quickly as possible to facilitate rapid functional testing of their vehicles.
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Industry
- Automotive industry
- Process
- SLM Process (Metal 3D Printing)
Challenge
The client received a last-minute request from headquarters for structural improvements to a new car model and was given only seven days to prepare the functional components; this is an urgent order.
Solution
As the products largely consist of curved tubular shapes and have specific assembly requirements regarding their appearance, we have adopted a solution combining metal 3D printing and sheet metal fabrication.
Result
Day 1: We quickly finalized the product drawings, dimensional standards, and surface finishing specifications with the client, and the order was formally confirmed. Days 2–4: We prioritized the urgent order with the production department; product programming was verified that same day, and production commenced using 20 SLM machines. Days 3–5: We carried out post-processing on the printed parts in batches, including cutting, grinding, and polishing. Day 6: The Quality Department conducted a comprehensive inspection—checking wall thickness, dimensions, assembly fit, surface quality, and hardness—and sent the results to the client for final approval. Day 7: The products were shipped.
Project Highlights
Combining metal 3D printing (SLM) with sheet metal processing offers a solution for metal automotive components—potentially the most efficient approach for the rapid delivery of small-batch orders. Combining metal 3D printing (SLM) with sheet metal processing offers a solution for metal automotive components—potentially the most efficient approach for the rapid delivery of small-batch orders.Combining metal 3D printing (SLM) with sheet metal processing offers a solution for metal automotive components—potentially the most efficient approach for the rapid delivery of small-batch orders.