Advantages of additive under the bonnet

GE has been working with manufacturers like Cummins to showcase the performance and efficiency advantages of 3D-printed drivetrain parts, such as pistons. The stronger, lighter pistons can be actuated faster while using less fuel.

Like wheels, pistons are traditionally produced through casting or forging, and suffer material inefficiencies – in this case, unnecessary material where the rod connects to the piston. Additive manufacturing allows for much greater control in these tight areas.

Another advantage of additive manufacturing is that these performance gains can be achieved without the added cost of tooling. Eliminating this expense could even allow small tuning shops to print pistons and other complex engine components without the need to outsource manufacturing.