We continue to discover revolutionary applications of 3D printing in the automotive and transportation sectors. These highlight the immense potential of technology in this field. Many automobile manufacturers have adopted additive manufacturing in their manufacturing processes. For example, the Swedish Volvo Group in Gothenburg recently chose to integrate the 3D printing technology of Australian industrial machinery manufacturer Titomic. Diatomic specializes in the manufacturing, coating and repair of metal components for sectors such as aerospace and automotive.
Volvo has six plants worldwide and is a major player in the automotive, heavy machinery and maintenance, repair and overhaul sectors. The company is one of the largest truck manufacturers in the world. Recently, Volvo has implemented Diatomic's Gold Spray technology, an advanced additive manufacturing method that coats surfaces with thick layers of special metals without melting. More specifically, it's the D523 low-pressure system, which Volvo bought for €55,000. The company now plans to integrate the technology into its repair and replacement operations. The sale also marks Titomic Technology's growing continuum in the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) sector, marking a step forward for the company in this area.
Titomic's Cold Spray technology (Credits: Titomic)
Volvo and adopted 3D printing
However, this system integration is far from Titomic's first foray into the operations of major market players. It has previously provided its technology to companies such as MTU Power and Rolls-Royce. The adoption of additive manufacturing technology by large companies underscores the enormous potential and opportunities inherent in 3D printing. Volvo's product range includes not only mining trucks but also marine machinery, which demonstrates the versatility of this technology. D523 is used for maintenance, repair and overhaul of Volvo heavy machinery machinery. This technology will be used specifically in Volvo trucks and Volvo construction equipment.
Titomic CEO Herbert Koch had this to say about the sale of the 3D printing machine to Volvo: „The integration of Titomic's D523 into the Volvo Group's repair operations is a major success. Volvo's adoption of this technology reflects the high performance of Titomic products and the growing interest in them in Europe and the global remanufacturing and maintenance industry.” Strengthens sourcing, remanufacturing and improves Titomic's ability to continue to sell effectively across multiple industries.”.
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*Cover image credit: Volvo