Racing Prototypes

By on December 20th, 2010 in Usage

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MCD Racing produces radio-controlled racing cars, 1/5 the size of real vehicles. These are not toys – they are highly sophisticated machines capable of winning world championships. These cars are capable of world record speeds of an unbelievable 260Kph (161mph)! Obviously they must be very carefully designed, perhaps with 1/5 the effort that goes into Formula One full size equipment. 
 
The 1,000+ parts involved in such vehicles are typically produced using injection molding at a cost of USD$20-40K, with a month of turnaround time. However, MCD invested in a Dimension 3D printer and has used it to develop over 200 prototypes at far lower cost and much faster turnaround time (days). 
 
But note – the parts produced on the 3D printer are not actually used in the final vehicles. While parts are pretty strong, they simply won’t withstand the extreme environment at ultra-high speeds. Instead, the 3D printed parts are used in lower-speed testing to validate their function before full-on aluminum injection molding is attempted.  
 

By Kerry Stevenson

Kerry Stevenson, aka "General Fabb" has written over 8,000 stories on 3D printing at Fabbaloo since he launched the venture in 2007, with an intention to promote and grow the incredible technology of 3D printing across the world. So far, it seems to be working!

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