Mercedes-Benz Trucks: the first spare part for trucks made of metal

By
Kety S.
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Mercedes-Benz Trucks fertigt komplexe metallische Ersatz- und Sonderbauteile in höchster Qualität mit einem neuen 3D-Druckverfahren. Das Foto zeigt den Bauraum des Laserdruckers, in dessen Mitte erstmals eine metallische Thermostatabdeckung durch selektives Laserschmelzen (SLM) entstanden ist. Wird die Bauplattform angehoben, schiebt sich der pulverförmige Aluminium-Silizium-Werkstoff zur Seite, und die Umrisse des Bauteils werden sichtbar. // Mercedes-Benz Trucks produces complex metallic spare and special parts in top quality using a new 3D printing process. The photo shows the working cavity of the laser printer at whose centre a metallic thermostat cover has been produced for the first time using selective laser melting (SLM). When the work platform is raised, the powdered aluminium/silicon material moves to the side and the contours of the component become visible.

This a premiere from the new 3D printer at Mercedes Benz, after an accurate quality assurance process, the company unveils the first printed spare part made of metal, a thermostat cover for truck and Unimog models from older model series.

With this innovation, the company now stands as one of  the leaders in the segment of cutting-edge 3D printing processes for metal components.

“With the introduction of 3D metal printing technology, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is reasserting its pioneering role among global commercial vehicle manufacturers,” says Andreas Deuschle, Head of Marketing & Operations in Customer Services & Parts at Mercedes-Benz Trucks. “We ensure the same functionality, reliability, durability and cost-effectiveness with 3D metal parts as we do with conventionally produced parts.“

New possibilities for metal parts

Metal parts are recognized for their strength and thermal resistance on the one hand; on the other hand, the process used by the 3D printer is appropriate for the production of components in small numbers.

Furthermore, 3D replacement parts production does not require any cost-intensive development work or procurement of special tools.

Photo via Mercedes-Benz Trucks

When dealing with complex structures, 3D-printed metal parts in small numbers can be produced cost-effectively as infrequently requested replacement parts, special parts and for small and classic model series.

The view into the interior of the 3D printer shows the first printed thermostat covers, which are still connected to the work platform. After removal of the platform and support structure, the aluminium/silicon metallic powder is removed by suction, sieved, cleaned and ecologically fed back into the recycling system.

“The availability of spare parts during a workshop visit is essential for our customers – no matter how old the truck is, or where it is located. The particular added value of 3D printing technology is that it considerably increases speed and flexibility, especially when producing spare and special parts. This gives us completely new possibilities for offering our customers spare parts rapidly and at attractive prices, even long after series production has ceased,” Deuschle concludes.

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