6 Automotive Parts That Are Ready for 3D Printing
It’s not just for prototypes anymore. These parts are on the road today.
Automotive 3D printing isn’t theoretical; it’s already being used to manufacture fundamental, functional components. From ducting to brackets to end-of-arm tooling, additive delivers speed, flexibility, and performance gains without the pain of moulds or long lead times.
Here are 6 examples of parts already being made using additive manufacturing.
1. Robot Gripper Fingers
Technology: FDM or SLS
Material: PA12 CF or ULTEM
Why it works: Customised end-of-arm tooling printed directly from design files. High strength, low weight.
Lead time: ~3 days
✅ Seen in: Body-in-white cells at major Tier 1s.
2. HVAC Air Ducts
Technology: SLS
Material: PA12 or PA12-GF
Why it works: Complex shapes, zero tooling, and heat resistance. Lightweight and durable.
Lead time: ~5–7 days
✅ Used in: Low-volume sports cars and motorsport.
3. EV Battery Cooling Manifolds
Technology: LPBF (metal)
Material: AlSi10Mg
Why it works: Complex internal channels impossible to cast or mill. Cuts weight and improves flow.
Lead time: ~10–12 days
✅ Field-tested by German EV startups.
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4. Sensor Brackets & Mounts
Technology: MJF or SLS
Material: PA12 or TPU
Why it works: Rapid iterations for a perfect fit. Good stiffness and vibration dampening.
Lead time: ~3–5 days
✅ Used in ADAS prototyping and pilot series.
5. Service & Spare Parts
Technology: FDM, SLS
Material: PA12, ABS, ASA
Why it works: No MOQ. Quick replacement of parts for older vehicle programs or export markets.
Lead time: ~2–4 days
✅ Common in aftermarket & fleet maintenance.
6. Assembly Jigs & Quality Fixtures
Technology: FDM
Material: PC, PA-GF
Why it works: Ergonomic, lightweight tools customised to the part.
Lead time: ~3–6 days
✅ Trusted by OEM quality and tooling teams.
Which Parts Should You Print?
Here’s a quick reference to help decide:
| Part Type | Best Technology | Material | Max Batch Size | Post-Processing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Functional polymer parts | SLS / MJF | PA12, GF, TPU | 1–1,000 | Bead blasting, dyeing |
| Metal brackets or housings | LPBF | AlSi10Mg, 316L | 1–500 | CNC skim, anodizing |
| Assembly jigs & tooling | FDM | PC, ULTEM, CF blends | 1–100 | Drilling, inserts |
Need tight tolerances? Just indicate critical surfaces—those can be CNC-finished to ±0.05 mm.
From Part File to Production
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