Mercedes-Benz Trucks 3D prints metal spare parts

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.
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.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks says that it has made its first additive manufactured (AM) spare part made of metal, a thermostat cover for truck and Unimog models.

‘Mercedes-Benz Trucks is now the technological leader in the challenging segment of cutting-edge 3D printing processes for metal components,’ the company added in a press release. ‘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 and operations in customer services and 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.’

This story is reprinted from material from Mercedes-Benzwith editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.