Volkswagen will use a new 3D printing process to print design elements such as individualised gear knobs in small production series and is pressing ahead with the development of the technology for mass production.
Volkswagen is using the “HP Metal Jet” process, which it claimed to simplify and speed up metallic 3D printing. The biggest advantage claimed: productivity improves fifty times compared with other 3D printing methods and depending on the component.
Together with printer manufacturer HP and component manufacturer GKN Powder Metallurgy, Volkswagen presented the new process for the first time at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago.
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