Key Takeaways
- Hyundai Motor Group and Kia have opened a joint Additive Manufacturing Solution Center (AMSC) in South Korea
- The AMSC features over half a dozen different AM processes, including both metal and polymer applications
- Hyundai has been using 3D printing since 1996, but the new facility marks a significant expansion of its additive manufacturing capabilities
- The company plans to use AM for high-value applications such as equipment consumables and manufacturing tools
- The AMSC is located at the Namyang R&D center, which covers over 3 million square feet and employs over 10,000 workers
Introduction to Additive Manufacturing Solution Center
Hyundai Motor Group and Kia have taken a significant step forward in their additive manufacturing capabilities with the opening of a joint Additive Manufacturing Solution Center (AMSC) in South Korea. The new facility, located at the Namyang R&D center, will enable the companies to rapidly internalize AM technologies and expand their use in various applications.
Additive Manufacturing Processes at AMSC
The AMSC features a range of AM processes, including:
| Process | Material | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) | Polymer | Prototyping, production parts |
| Stereolithography (SLA) | Polymer | Prototyping, production parts |
| Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) | Polymer | Prototyping, production parts |
| Directed Energy Deposition (DED) | Metal | Repair, production parts |
| Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) | Metal | Production parts |
| Binder Jetting | Metal | Production parts |
Benefits of Additive Manufacturing
According to Hanwoo On, senior manager of the Additive Manufacturing Solutions Team at Hyundai Motor Group, "We are rapidly internalizing [AM] technologies through a growing range of applications across the Group. Beyond vehicle components, we are expanding their use in high-value applications such as equipment consumables and manufacturing tools." This expansion is driven by the need to reduce supply uncertainty and production workflow delays.
Comparison with Traditional Manufacturing Methods
| Method | Lead Time | Cost | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Manufacturing | 6-12 weeks | High | Limited |
| Additive Manufacturing | 1-4 weeks | Medium | High |
Bottom Line
The opening of the Additive Manufacturing Solution Center marks a significant milestone in Hyundai Motor Group and Kia's adoption of additive manufacturing technologies. With its range of AM processes and applications, the AMSC is poised to play a key role in the companies' efforts to reduce production workflow delays and supply uncertainty. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the use of additive manufacturing is likely to become increasingly important, and Hyundai and Kia are well-positioned to take advantage of this trend.