Volvo CE Prints Spare Equipment Parts

Volvo CE is also investing in 3D printing technology for creating prototypes of new parts.

On the spare parts front, Volvo is printing replacement parts out thermoplastics that can be sent to customers. So far, those parts include cabin components, plastic coverings and sections of air conditioning units across the company’s entire range of off-road vehicles and equipment.

The part designs are based on archive drawings, product information and 3D models.

The parts can be delivered within one week, which can help improve equipment uptime for customers. By being able to print parts that are no longer being produced, customers can also extend the overall lifecycle of the machines.

“Lead times are significantly reduced with 3D printing and since there are no minimum order quantity requirements, we benefit from quicker delivery of parts, lower inventory levels in our warehouses and an improved ability to balance supply and demand,” says Daniel Kalfholm, project leader for Aftermarket Purchasing for Volvo CE’s EMEA region. “And it can all be carried out a purchase price that is comparable to that of a traditionally manufactured component.”

“The customer is getting exactly the same part in replacing plastic with plastic,” says Annika Fries, aftermarket branding manager at Volvo CE. “We do a lot of quality assurance – the 3D parts have the same specifications and go through the same process as the original, and get the same warranty, so customers can be confident they are getting a genuine Volvo approved part.”

According to Volvo CE, the company is also investigating printing spare parts out of metal.

Source: Volvo CE