chanelink logo
CHANELINK
English

BMW uses WAAM 3D printing to optimize derivative designs

913
2024-04-13 13:45:50
See translation

BMW explained how to use WAAM (Arc Additive Manufacturing) starting from 2025 to manufacture lighter and stronger automotive components and reduce waste generation, in order to optimize the use of generative design tools.

The demonstrated WAAM process uses aluminum wire raw materials directly deposited through laser welding heads, enabling automotive companies to manufacture lighter and more robust parts than similar large parts.

BMW stated that in order to optimize the parts manufactured using this technology, the combination of manufacturing processes and general new component design is crucial. To this end, BMW is accelerating the use of generative design and working closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop its own algorithms, partially inspired by the natural evolution process.

Karol Virsik, Head of Vehicle Research at BMW Group, said, "What is impressive is how WAAM technology has evolved from research to a flexible tool that can be used not only for testing components, but also for mass production of components." "The use of generative design methods allows us to fully utilize design freedom, thus fully utilizing the potential of technology. Just a few years ago, this was unimaginable."

Although these components have wide welds, BMW engineers have proven that WAAM components can still be used for high loads without the need for precision machining of surfaces.

Since 2021, BMW has been testing this DED process at its additive manufacturing park in Oberschlei ß heim, Germany, where the first batch of components will be produced. BMW expects to increase production in other locations by using existing assembly lines with new software.

BMW stated that the adoption of WAAM technology will not replace SLS technology for more refined parts, but arc additive manufacturing technology is "superior" in terms of possible size and deposition rate of parts.

The company is even considering using WAAM technology to directly produce individual components on assembly lines, as this technology does not require new tools and only requires software changes to manufacture different components.

Source: NetEase Network

Related Recommendations

  • Exail acquires laser company Leukos

    On January 6, 2025, Exail acquired Leukos, a laser company specializing in advanced laser sources for metrology, spectroscopy, and imaging applications. The financial terms of this acquisition have not been disclosed yet. Leukos will operate as a subsidiary of Exail, retaining its product portfolio and brand. This acquisition combines Leukos' advanced technologies, including pulsed micro lasers,...

    01-08
    See translation

  • LM GROUP USA expands its North American office

    Recently, BLM GROUP USA, a leading manufacturer of laser tube and sheet metal processing equipment, announced that its North American headquarters in Novi, Michigan has officially started construction, with plans to add 65000 square feet of modern facilities. It is expected to be completed and put into use in the third quarter of 2025.The specific investment amount for this expansion has not been ...

    2024-08-03
    See translation

  • Han's Laser New Product Debuts at 2025 Munich Shanghai Light Expo

    New product launch of "Blue Hurricane" red blue integrated laser1. Ultra high power: The "red blue integrated" laser, with optimized optical path design and heat dissipation system, can stably output power exceeding industry standards, meeting high demand application scenarios.2. Dual high brightness: Integrating advanced wavelength modulation technology and materials science, both red and blue l...

    03-07
    See translation

  • Photon automation expands through new laser application laboratories

    Photon Automation, Inc., headquartered in Greenfield, Indiana, has been committed to providing automated laser technology solutions since 2000. The company is pleased to announce the opening of its state-of-the-art laser application laboratory in Farmington Hills, Michigan. This 7400 square foot facility will be led by renowned laser physicist Dr. Najah George, who has over 35 years of extensive e...

    2023-09-01
    See translation

  • An optical display technology based on mechanical optical mechanism

    The optical properties of afterglow luminescent particles in mechanical quenching and mechanical luminescence have aroused great interest in various technological applications. However, for specific photon applications, clearer explanations are needed for these unusual events.Recently, scientists from Pohang University of Science and Technology have designed an optical display technology with ALP ...

    2024-03-12
    See translation