Welcome back to Vision Miner’s 3D printing news. In this edition, we’ve got an array of exciting developments from the world of 3D printing, including major players like Porsche, GM, Cadillac, and BMW. But before we dive into the details, the entire Vision Miner team wishes you, your friends, and family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We appreciate your support as customers, viewers, and fellow 3D printing enthusiasts. Now, let’s explore the latest updates.
IKEA’s 3D Printable Sound Systems
For those who love assembling their own furniture, IKEA has something special for you. They’ve released 3D printable files as part of the Frekvens collection, created in partnership with Teenage Engineering. These audio and light systems are designed to enhance your home sound systems. As large gatherings aren’t feasible right now, this DIY approach allows you to enjoy music at home like never before. The link to these exciting designs is in the description below.
Automotive Advancements
Now, let’s shift our focus to the automotive industry, where 3D printing is making significant contributions. Porsche, for example, is using 12 lasers on its new SLM metal 3D printers to create e-drive components for a front axle. The resulting housing, which holds electronics, transmission, and an electric motor, is not only large but also powerful, with a motor delivering 280 horsepower.
Cadillac is introducing a manual transmission in the CT5V, and this was made possible with 3D printing. They’ve used additive manufacturing to develop a quieter and more durable gearbox, making manual transmissions more accessible and efficient.
General Motors has opened a new additive industrial center, focusing on increasing the agility of their production lines. This facility houses various types of 3D printers, including SLS, SLM, MJF, and FDM, transforming product development, motorsports, and manufacturing.
BMW is showcasing the use of 3D printing in Rolls-Royce’s serially 3D printed automotive metal parts. These parts, optimized for design for additive manufacturing (DFAM), have already been integrated into their luxurious Phantom models, showcasing the versatility of 3D printing in the automotive sector.
3D Printed Electric Vehicles
Speaking of innovative vehicles, Epterm Motors is launching a self-charging electric vehicle called the Aptera. This solar electric vehicle combines metal 3D printing, solar, and electric power, delivering exceptional energy efficiency and a zero to 60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. With prices ranging from $25,000 to $46,000, it’s a promising option for eco-conscious drivers.
Functional 3D Printing
If you’re into 3D printing, the Funmat HT from Intamsys offers an excellent solution. It recently played a vital role in a Swedish pharmaceutical firm’s production line. When the firm faced downtime due to the unavailability of spare parts, they used the Funmat HT to print high-temperature functional materials, getting their machines back up and running in a matter of days.
3D Printed Food
3D printing isn’t limited to hardware; it extends to the culinary world. Michelin-starred chefs at Cocina Hermanos Torres in Barcelona are using the Foodini 3D printer by Natural Machines to create intricate food shapes. This technology allows for culinary creations that would be nearly impossible to achieve by hand. For more on 3D printed food, check out our dedicated video on our YouTube channel or other platforms.
3D Printing in Space
The world of 3D printing isn’t restricted to Earth. Redwire, a company specializing in mission-critical space solutions, has successfully 3D printed a ceramic turbine part while in orbit. It’s a remarkable achievement and shows the potential of 3D printing in space technology.
Additionally, a French nuclear company, Framatome, has created the world’s first uranium objects using 3D printing technology. This breakthrough enables the development of metallic uranium fuel plates for research reactors and irradiation targets for medical isotopes, supporting cancer diagnosis in hospitals.
What to Expect in 2021
As we approach 2021, we’re curious to know what you expect and look forward to in the world of 3D printing. Please share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below. Your insights might even inspire our future videos!
At Vision Miner, we specialize in functional 3D printing, especially high-performance plastics like PEEK and ULTEM. If you’re in need of these materials or robust 3D printing solutions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you find the right solutions for your business. Thank you for being a part of our community, and we wish you a positive and prosperous 2021. Happy holidays and see you in the next video!