British Formula 1 team McLaren Racing now 3D prints up to 9,000 parts each year, long-term manufacturing partner Stratasys has revealed.
Using five Stratasys Neo 800 3D printers, the outfit has created numerous aerodynamic parts across its front and rear wing R&D programs, as well as large elements of its car’s side bodywork and top-body. According to the team’s Head of AM Tim Chapman, the technology has also become advanced enough for end-use applications, while continuing to help accelerate its aero-testing initiatives.
“Wind tunnel testing is still the gold standard when assessing how every surface works together, either as an assembly or as a complete car,” explains Chapman. “Our Neo series of 3D printers have helped us to dramatically reduce the lead times of our aerodynamic wind tunnel components and projects.”
“Stereolithography technology and materials have…
