When engineering challenging designs, 3D printing let’s you try new prototypes, address problems and find solutions as you go, all in a matter of hours. It also allows you to work with complex internal structures and geometries, something traditional methods just can’t offer.

There are still numerous improvements to be made before it can be implemented for mass manufacturing, making it more ideal for small-batch and one-off production. However, parts aren’t the only way that 3D printing can help the automotive industry. More companies are adopting 3D printing for jigs and fixtures. Going forward Topogrpahical Optimization is virtually impossible to manufacture with traditional methods, but 3D printing has the potential to handle complex geometries in a minimal waste process with lightweight materials. While different types of plastic printing are grabbing headlines, some companies are looking at large metal parts.

Major Areas of Application today are: