NASCAR has officially partnered with Stratasys to enhance their 3D printing capabilities, marking a significant step forward for the racing organization in additive manufacturing. This partnership follows years of collaboration, as NASCAR has previously utilized Stratasys’ technology to produce parts for their cars. The announcement coincides with plans for a new 3D printing lab at the NASCAR Research & Development Center in Concord, North Carolina, which will be equipped with advanced Stratasys printers.
The automotive industry, particularly in motor racing, is increasingly turning to 3D printing for its advantages in creating lightweight components and reducing production delays. NASCAR’s decision to formalize its relationship with Stratasys underscores their commitment to integrating additive manufacturing in car design and production. The partnership will enhance NASCAR’s capabilities by expanding their current FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) resources and introducing stereolithography to their processes.
John Probst, NASCAR’s executive vice president, highlighted that working with Stratasys allows teams to quickly iterate and optimize vehicle components, thereby maintaining a competitive edge in the high-stakes environment of motorsports. The use of 3D printing will facilitate faster design cycles and the production of custom components, which can be applied in areas such as aerodynamic testing and high-precision tooling.
NASCAR engineers have already collaborated with Stratasys on specific projects, including developing a cold air inlet vent and a NACA duct for better airflow management in race cars. The partnership aims to showcase the benefits of 3D printing in enhancing vehicle performance and production efficiency, while also influencing advancements in the broader automotive market.