ROME – The evolution of technologies has also led to a change in the way cars are made. An example of this transformation comes from Stratasys Ltd, a leader in polymer-based 3D printing solutions, which has collaborated with the luxury brand Radford to create more than 500 3D printed components for the special Lotus Type 62-2. The whole process is told in the video “Radford Returns”, available for streaming on Discovery +, in which car builder and presenter Ant Anstead together with former F1 champion Jenson Button (both partners founders of Radford), documents the construction of the supercar. “Stratasys 3D printing technology has given us the ability to design without constraints – said Anstead – and to easily create unique and customized components and parts for these two vehicle prototypes. This has allowed us to fully dedicate ourselves to the manufacture of customized bodies, albeit with up-to-date processes based on 21st century technologies “.
To produce the first two cars, more than 500 parts were 3D printed at Radford Studio, automotive design and engineering firm Aria Group, and Stratasys’ Direct Manufacturing center. Using specific Stratasys software, the Radford team planned and monitored its 3D printing at 5 locations around the world, using a fleet of 20 different Stratasys 3D printers simultaneously.
“By integrating 3D printing technology into its labs, Radford has been able to transport 1960s-inspired supercar manufacturing into the 21st century, with the highly customized style and high-end features that customers expect. expect from a vehicle of this level – said Pat Carey, Stratasys vice president of strategy – It is an extraordinary example of a phenomenon we see every day in the automotive sector. Anyone who invests in new vehicles wants a greater level of customization and 3D printing helps make it possible ”.
Thanks to a number of different technologies and 3D printers, the team was able to produce parts such as the large core of the sandwich firewall made of composite material, made in two halves then assembled to form a single piece, subsequently wrapped in carbon fiber. . The use of specific materials made it possible to respond optimally to a series of factors such as resistance, reduced project timing and design freedom. Following the initial collaboration, Stratasys will continue to support the Radford Lotus Type 62-2 project with production parts obtained from the company’s various 3D printing technologies. (maurilio rigo)