Now, the Lichtenfels, Germany-based automotive company Robert Hofmann GmbH has utilized 3D printing technology to create a fully functional cylinder block for a Volkswagen motor. Known as the heart of the motor, the 3D printed cylinder block weighs around 25 kilograms, and has been built for the VR6-motor found in the 2014-2015 Volkswagen model. Taking the CAD data of the original cylinder block, which was produced from cast iron GJL-250, the Robert Hofmann GmbH team was able to create a 3D printed version consisting of a lightweight aluminum material.
According to Michael Dinkel, the manager of the cylinder block project, the Robert Hofmann GmbH team was a bit skeptical when Volkswagen approached them about constructing a fully functional 3D printed cylinder block, but their close-knit team was able to get the job done.
Before being tested by Volkswagen, the cylinder block was completely mechanically processed and provided with an APS lining. The 3D printed cylinder block then received metallurgic and geometric tests from Volkswagen engineers, who used a computer tomography to check internal geometries, such as the cooling jacket around the cylinder tubes. What these tests showed was that the 3D printed component had low porosity and smaller distortions and deviations compared to the cast iron part.
After finding success with the test rig, Robert Hofmann GmbH and Volkswagen proved that it is possible to functionally utilize a 3D printed cylinder block. What makes the 3D printing process ideal for automotive manufacturers is the lack of geometric constraints in comparison to the casting process. As companies like Robert Hofmann GmbH continue to push through the boundaries of what can be done with 3D printing, we inch closer to a world where 3D printed functional vehicles are not only possible, but preferable to other traditional methods. Discuss further in the 3D Printed Cylinder Block forum over at 3DPB.com.