With the ongoing transition to EVs, Ford Cologne’s PD Merkenich development center relied on AM to speed up work on the design of the Ford all-electric Explorer, the manufacturer’s first EV for the European market.
At PD Merkenich’s Rapid Technology Center, Ford produces full-scale automotive prototypes rapidly with SLA and SLS 3D printing from Formlabs.
Sandro Piroddi, Supervisor of the Rapid Technology Center, Ford has revealed that “Working with Form 4, it’s a game-changer. The speed of the printer will change our workflow. We can deliver more parts, the throughput is higher. We are much more flexible if we have short-time requests. Now we can do these using Form 4.”
Fast iterations with excellent surface quality became possible using the Form 3L and new Form 4 SLA 3D printers. With these advanced technologies, Ford can react to EVs design changes and build products more seamlessly.
Discover more about the Formlabs 3D printers here.
In addition, SLS 3D printing is applied to a mechanical parts test whereby the materials are very close to that designed for mass production. Ford used this capability to validate complex assemblies such as the new Explorer’s charging port cover.
By incorporating 3D printing in its workflow, Ford reduced its development time and upheld its position in the tough automotive market.
Read more about Ford’s AM journey in Europe in the latest 3D ADEPT Mag (PP 28-30).
Author: Nagarjun M
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