As of 30 September 2016, Mercedes-Benz GenuineParts may be ordered and supplied at the press of a button from the 3D printer, with what the German giant describes as “consistent quantity”.
“In keeping with our brand promise ‘Trucks you can trust’, we set the same benchmarks for reliability, functionality, durability and economy for spare parts from 3D production as for parts from conventional production,” insists Andreas Deuschle, head of marketing and operations in customer services.
“However, 3D offers many more possibilities: this is why we shall be rapidly extending the production of 3D printed parts.”
Deuschle explains that Daimler already produces more than 100 000 printed prototype parts per year for the individual company divisions.
“We benefit from our extensive experience at Daimler with 3D printing in prototype construction,” states Deuschle – adding that 3D printed parts offered will be, for example, plastic components. covers, spacers, spring caps, air and cable ducts, clamps, mountings and control elements.
Printed spares are created using rapid SLS (selective laser sintering) printers and are said to be economical even for small production quantities.
Deuschle says every 3D spare can be ordered using the order code lists and the spare parts catalogues at Mercedes-Benz Trucks – meaning 3D printed spares are available quickly even older trucks.
Initially, around 30 3D-printed spare parts will be available on demand, with the number expected to grow significantly over time.