Carbon have entered into a new agreement with Ford to digitally manufacture end-use parts using their 3D printers. This agreement also means a further expansion of their existing agreement to print car components using DLS technology and their innovative (epoxy) EPX 82 material.
Carbon’s technology will aid in 3D printing the Focus’ HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Cooling) Lever Arm Service Parts, Ford’s F-150 Raptor Auxiliary Plugs for a niche market, and the Mustang GT500 Electric Parking Brake Brackets. Both companies presented the new partnership at the 2019 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
“We are thrilled to be collaborating with Ford Motor Company and are excited about the many opportunities to leverage the power of digital manufacturing to deliver durable, end-use parts with similar – or better – properties as injection molded parts,” said Dr. Joseph DeSimone, CEO and Co-founder of Carbon. “The automotive industry shows significant promise for using digital fabrication at scale, and our work with Ford is a perfect example of the kind of innovation you can achieve when you design on the means of production.”
Carbon DLS Technology
Carbon’s DLS technology allows Ford to print parts not just in high quality, but also fulfil stringent quality standards. These especially include interior weathering, short- and long-term heat exposures, UV stability, fluid and chemical resistance, flammability (ISO 3795) and fogging (SAEJ1756).
This particular partnership and its roots go as far back as 2014. Back then Carbon demonstrated Continuous Liquid Interface Production technology (CLIP) to Ford’s additive manufacturing group. After the demonstration, Ford’s team was eager to join Carbon’s early access program and begin using one of the devices. Since then, both companies have been engaged in a fruitful collaboration.
Carbon has long been procuring partnerships with various companies. From Ford to National Dentex Labs to Adidas, the company has inked deals in all sorts of industries.
Featured image courtesy of Carbon and Ford.