For the first time, Mercedes-Benz has 3D printed a spare part from metal that passes all of its stringent quality assurance processes.
Traditionally, 3D printers have only been able to create things out of thin plastic but Mercedes-Benz managed to initially print parts from aluminum and then improve its processes to create a thermostat cover for truck and Unimog vehicles out of metal.
Mercedes-Benz Trucks claims that this is the first 3D printed metal part ever offered to the public and showcases a technology perfect for parts that are rarely ordered and need to be made-to-order.
In a statement, the manufacturer said 3D printing has a host of advantages, including the simple fact that components can be made at the touch of a button and in any quantity.
According to head of Marketing & Operations in Customer Service & Parts at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Andreas Deuschle said:
“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.”
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