Welcome back, folks! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of metal 3D printing and how automotive giant Audi, in collaboration with EOS, is pushing the boundaries of what this technology can do. Audi has been using EOS technology to produce tools for hot forming, and their success has opened doors to even more applications in the near future.
The Audi-EOS Partnership
Currently, Audi harnesses the power of EOS’s M400 system to craft tools in its press shop, which play a crucial role in creating body panels for models like the popular Audi A4. The transition from traditional manufacturing methods to additive manufacturing is a significant leap forward, highlighting the quality, reliability, and design freedom that 3D printing offers.
Matthias Herker, the technical project manager at the Audi Metal 3D Printing Center, emphasized, “Whenever conventional manufacturing methods reach their limit, we use additive manufacturing, which lets us meet quality standards and comply with production times.”
Expanding the Horizon
The partnership between Audi and EOS extends beyond hot forming applications. The Audi Metal 3D Printing Center, located in Germany, doesn’t limit itself to small-scale tools. They have ventured into printing custom tools as large as 5 by 3 meters. The size and complexity of these tools mean that 20-day long print times are not uncommon. Audi’s bold steps in this direction showcase the enormous potential of 3D printing in the automotive industry.
Reliability and Efficiency
Audi emphasizes that one of the key reasons for their success is the reliability of EOS systems. Notably, one of the major advantages of 3D printing hot forming segments is the ability to design embedded cooling channels. These channels enhance the cooling process within the tool, leading to shorter cycle times while maintaining outstanding quality.
These tools have a wide range of applications, from tooling and jigs to fixtures and production processes. For any 3D printer, these applications offer one of the best returns on investment (ROI).
Stay Informed
Exciting developments like Audi and EOS’s collaboration in the world of 3D printing demonstrate how the industry is continually evolving. We bring you the latest 3D printing news every week, so don’t miss out. Be sure to like this video and subscribe to our channel to stay up-to-date with the latest innovations. Until then, have a fantastic day, and we’ll catch you in the next video!