Ford and HP join forces to use 3D printer waste for auto parts

The Ford motor company has announced that 3D printing offers a new source of low-volume auto parts. By using the waste from 3D printers for vehicle parts, manufacturers hope to increase sustainability within the automotive industry.

Ford plans to work with HP to continue re-using 3D printer materials to develop auto parts. Fortunately, these new parts are both healthier for the environment and provide the same type of durability expected by both Ford and HP as well as their customers. In fact, these parts show better resistance to moisture and chemicals than previous version, are seven percent lighter and 10 percent less expensive.

Moreover, as 3D printers already utilize extensive recycling strategies that allow them to re-use the majority of their own waste, this new solution promises to enable the 3D printing process to reach a zero-waste output. Both companies have expressed great optimism regarding the combination of two their two different industries. As part of the process, Ford has begun manufacturing various materials and processes for 3D printing. Furthermore, they have already begun to integrate 3D printing into the manufacturing process at the assembly line in order to both enhance quality and save time.

Read more at Tech Xplore

Image Credit: Ford Media Center

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