The "NextGenAM" joint project has so far demonstrated great potential for spare parts and series production in terms of manufacturing costs. The aim is to develop a pilot plant for an automated additive manufacturing process. 3D printing is thus well on its way to further establishing itself as an additional production method in the automotive and aviation sectors.

For a long time, China was regarded as the savior of the automobile industry. However, the upward trend has slowed down and traditional manufacturers are facing new challenges.

Opinions on the question of whether electrified cars can be sold successfully differ significantly. FCA, for example, is skeptical: The manufacturer prefers the path of low costs - this can also include fines for climate-damaging exhaust gases.

Modern lightweight design is particularly important when intelligent hybrid concepts have to fulfil several functions at the same time. Join the discussion at the "Lightweight Construction Summit" with a simultaneous english translation on 26 and 27 March 2019 in Würzburg, Germany.

In the north of Germany, EOS, Daimler, and Premium Aerotec are developing a production line for additive manufacturing. Our affiliate portal MM Maschinenmarkt asked Thomas Bielefeld, Head of Additive Manufacturing at PAG, which challenges the three companies are facing in this project.

For the production of complex customized parts and small series manufacturing, 3D metal printing has already proved its worth. However, for large series, industrial 3D printing is required. Experts believe that aluminum is particularly suitable for this purpose.

Premium Aerotec, Daimler and EOS launched the "NextGenAM" project a year ago. The aim was to develop the basics of a production system for series production with 3D printing technology.