Continental AG 3D prints ESD-compliant automotive parts for agile production

Best known for manufacturing tires, German automotive technologies leader, Continental AG is experiencing cost-effective production and fast turnaround of high-quality customized parts after the installation of a Stratasys Fortus 450mc 3D printer at their Additive Design and Manufacturing (ADaM) Competence Center.

Producing anything from prototypes to jigs & fixtures, end-use parts, and ESD-compliant parts, Continental has been a keen adopter of additive manufacturing in recent years under their Continental Engineering Services (CES) division.

Stefan Kammann holding a 3D printed ESD-compliant gluing jig.

The Fortus 450mc is a great addition to our portfolio, as it enables us to access highly specialized materials that allow us to meet the requirements of demanding production applications on the factory floor. In fact, it’s the only 3D printer we have that is capable of creating ESD-compliant production parts in very little time.Stefan Kammann, Head of Samples and Mechanical Solutions, Continental Engineering Services

CES deals a lot with multiple electronic parts and components on its manufacturing floor, when it comes to producing automotive parts and solutions. It is thus essential that the produced parts have static dissipative properties to prevent any damage to the part and eliminate fire risks.

ABS-ED7 has therefore become a vital material for Continental as it meets the necessary electrostatic discharge standards to print several jigs and fixtures, including the gluing jig for automotive display assembly.

ESD-compliant gluing jig for display assembly, ensuring safe handling around electronics at Continental. — ESD-compliant gluing jig for display assembly, ensuring safe handling around electronics.

“We are able to 3D print the gluing jig for the automotive display assembly with Stratasys’ ABS-ESD7 material, which means we have a fast, safe, and ESD-compliant solution in-house that is customizable,” explained Kaumann.

The production speed of the 450mc has also been a great asset as tools and parts can be produced in just a matter of hours to ensure continuous production. This means less downtime for machines and affords Continental much more production agility, especially when it comes to the replacement of parts.

3D printed using ULTEM 9085 resin, this X-ray guide is used to ensure automotive sensors are kept in place during production and to guarantee product repeatability.

With the current global economic climate continuing to present challenges, Continental is relying on additive manufacturing to play a key role in delivering much-needed efficiencies across the product development process.

Visit the Stratasys FDM 3D Printers page for more information on their 3D printing capabilities or you may drop an inquiry via the contact form, info@creatz3d.com, or call +65 6631 8555.

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