3D Printing is Ideal for Rapid Automotive Prototyping

3D printing has provided auto engineers with a whole new way to create prototypes of their designs and concepts. Almost any part of an automobile – bumpers, dashboards, consoles, seats, headlight assemblies, etc. can be manufactured using 3D printing. 3D printing is especially useful for the rapid production of design prototypes.

Auto manufacturers are under constant pressure to introduce new and innovative products to the market. The sooner a concept goes from the drawing board to the production, the better. A big part of the design and development phase is the creation of design prototypes – three-dimensional versions of a design concept. Prototypes are used to test the validity of a design concept. They can include concept models, low- and high-fidelity prototypes, functional prototypes, mock-ups, pre-production prototypes, and more.

Advantages of 3D Printing for the Production of Design Prototypes

3D printing technologies provide auto engineers with the means to produce design prototypes quickly and in a cost-effective way. This allows automotive designers to test multiple options and iterations when creating new parts or models, improving product performance. Rapid 3D printing automotive prototyping reduces design and development time, thereby reducing overall product development costs.

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printing is especially suited to the rapid production of prototype models. The FDM 3D printing process uses thermoplastic materials such as ABS, polycarbonate, and PC/AB to build a piece layer by layer. Large, complex-shaped parts can be created using FDM 3D printing.

FDM 3D printing has been a game-changer for the automotive industry. Almost every production part of an automobile can now be manufactured using 3D printing. It’s faster and easier than traditional CNC manufacturing methods. Today, 3D printed parts are used in racing cars, automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, and other vehicles. 3D automobile printing can also provide a fast and inexpensive way to manufacture low volume and customized auto parts.

ProTek Models Provides Industry-Leading 3D Automotive Printing Services

ProTek Models is a leading provider of high-performance FDM 3D printed parts and components to companies in the automotive, aerospace, defense, transportation, and energy industries. We’re known for delivering outstanding 3D printing, RTV molding, urethane vacuum casting, and custom scale model services. Our client list includes West Coast Customs, Saleen Automotive, Mitsubishi, Boeing, Raytheon, Oceaneering, NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and more.

What sets ProTek Models apart is the extra effort we devote to ensuring the quality of a workpiece, such as a double layer of epoxy seal to increase strength and help waterproof a part. We provide customers with a wide selection of product materials including ABS, ASA, FDM nylons, and polycarbonates. 3D printed parts can be sanded, painted, textured, upholstered, chrome-plated, etc., to customer specifications.

If your company looking for a way to rapidly produce high-quality, high-performance parts and components in a way that won’t break your budget, give ProTek Models a call. Our knowledgeable, experienced technical team is available to help you create a prototype or finished piece that meets your specifications, timeline, and budget. Contact us through our website or call us at (832) 968-6636 for more information and price quotes.