Stratasys and NASCAR are Shaping the Future of Motorsports with 3D Printing
The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) has long been synonymous with high-speed thrills, razor-sharp precision, and relentless innovation. Now, thanks to a groundbreaking multi-year agreement, Stratasys Ltd. has become the exclusive 3D printing partner of NASCAR, taking the fusion of technology and motorsports to new heights. This partnership signals a transformative moment, bringing cutting-edge additive manufacturing technologies to the forefront of stock car racing.
Let’s delve into the specifics of this alliance, the technologies involved, and how this partnership is set to revolutionise not only NASCAR but also the broader automotive and manufacturing industries.
NASCAR’s Need for Speed Meets Stratasys’ 3D Printing Precision
In a sport where milliseconds can make the difference between glory and defeat, having the best tools at your disposal is critical. Stratasys’ advanced 3D printing solutions now play a central role in NASCAR’s engineering and design processes. Through this exclusive partnership, NASCAR will leverage Stratasys technologies to produce parts, tools, and prototypes faster than ever before, replacing older manufacturing methods with state-of-the-art additive solutions.
John Probst, Executive Vice President and Chief Racing Development Officer at NASCAR, underscored the significance of this collaboration:
“Partnering with Stratasys allows NASCAR to push the boundaries of performance and accuracy like never before. Their 3D printing technology empowers us to quickly iterate and optimise components, ensuring that our staff have the best possible machines to stay ahead in this high-stakes environment.”
A Cutting-Edge Lab for a Cutting-Edge Sport
Central to this partnership is the establishment of a state-of-the-art 3D printing lab at the NASCAR Research & Development Centre in Concord, North Carolina. This facility boasts an impressive lineup of Stratasys technologies, including:
- F370, 450mc, and F900 (FDM Printers): Ideal for durable, high-performance components.
- NEO800 (Stereolithography Printer): Perfect for high-precision prototyping and aerodynamic testing.
These systems offer NASCAR engineers unparalleled flexibility, enabling them to experiment with new designs, iterate rapidly, and produce customised parts on demand. Whether it’s tools for testing, components for aerodynamic performance, or solutions to enhance driver safety, the applications are vast.
Real-World Applications: How 3D Printing Hits the Track
Every NASCAR vehicle on the track now integrates 3D-printed components. A standout example of Stratasys’ impact is the development of custom cold air inlet vents using the H350 SAF printer and plant-based Nylon 11 material. These vents channel cool air into the car, ensuring drivers remain comfortable under extreme conditions.
Additionally, FDM printers at the NASCAR R&D Centre are used to produce NACA ducts for improved engine cooling. Made with ULTEM® 9085 black material, these ducts help vent hot air out of the engine bay, enhancing both performance and reliability. These components highlight how additive manufacturing enables NASCAR to address challenges with precision and efficiency.
Expanding Capabilities with Advanced Technologies
Stratasys isn’t stopping at FDM printing. By integrating NEO® stereolithography (SL), NASCAR gains the ability to produce high-precision parts for aerodynamic testing and prototyping. This combination of technologies allows for seamless transitions from concept to production, bridging the gap between innovative ideas and on-track performance.
Rich Garrity, Chief Business Unit Officer at Stratasys, explained:
“Our partnership with NASCAR allows Stratasys to showcase the unique advantages of 3D printing in motorsports. From on-demand manufacturing of custom components to speeding up the design cycle, we’re helping NASCAR with faster production times and enhanced part performance.”
Driving Innovation Beyond the Track
While this partnership centres on motorsports, its implications ripple across the broader automotive and manufacturing landscapes. Stratasys’ work with NASCAR demonstrates how additive manufacturing can:
- Reduce Lead Times: By enabling on-demand production, manufacturers can respond more quickly to market needs.
- Enhance Sustainability: Using plant-based materials like Nylon 11 aligns with eco-conscious manufacturing practices.
- Spur Innovation: High-performance environments like NASCAR serve as testing grounds for technologies that can later be applied to commercial vehicles and other industries.
Stratasys continues to lead the charge in sectors like aerospace, healthcare, and consumer goods, proving that the lessons learned on the racetrack can transform industries far beyond it.
About the Partnership
NASCAR’s commitment to innovation aligns seamlessly with Stratasys’ mission to revolutionise manufacturing. As the No. 1 motorsports organisation in the United States, NASCAR sanctions over 1,200 races annually across 11 countries, with its vehicles representing the pinnacle of engineering prowess. By integrating Stratasys’ 3D printing solutions, NASCAR not only gains a competitive edge but also reinforces its position as a leader in motorsports innovation.
A Bright Road Ahead
This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a glimpse into the future of motorsports. With Stratasys at the helm of NASCAR’s additive manufacturing needs, the possibilities are endless. From optimising vehicle performance to improving safety standards, the synergy between these two titans of industry promises to set new benchmarks for engineering excellence.
As the motorsports industry evolves, collaborations like this ensure that innovation remains in the driver’s seat. The lessons learned here will undoubtedly influence the next generation of automotive design and manufacturing, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the track.
