BMW Group Elevates Additive Manufacturing to New Heights

A Legacy of Innovation in Additive Manufacturing

The BMW Group has been at the forefront of additive manufacturing (AM) since the early '90s, having received EOS's first Stereos 400 system in 1990.

Strategic Investment in Advanced Technologies

In a recent announcement, BMW Group revealed its strategic focus on scaling up additive manufacturing. The company is investing in new systems, larger build volumes, and digitally connected process chains. This initiative aims to enhance automation and mature newer technologies, particularly Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), into series production starting in 2027.

"A key pillar of our scaling strategy is the use of automated, digitally networked process chains, and open-material systems as well as open interfaces, all of which allow seamless integration into our existing production structures," said Timo Göbel, Head of Additive Manufacturing at the BMW Group.

The Role of the Additive Manufacturing Campus

Since its inception, the facility has produced over 1.6 million 3D printed parts, with an additional 100,000 parts manufactured annually at other vehicle plants. The AMC has been instrumental in supporting the development and validation of Neue Klasse vehicles and the latest-generation electric drive.

Embracing WAAM for Large-Scale Metal Components

WAAM is now being gradually integrated into series production, promising more opportunities for larger, functional components with improved properties. This technology allows for more flexible production and reduced reliance on traditional tooling.

"BMW believes it will see more opportunities for larger, functional components with improved properties, produced more flexibly and in less time, without the need for traditional tooling."

Open-Material Systems and Faster Integration

The company also emphasizes the importance of open-material systems and interfaces, which are expected to increase technological breadth and facilitate the faster integration of new solutions into existing industrial environments. This approach is not only beneficial at the AMC but also empowers plants worldwide to 3D print their own production accessories in-house and on-demand.

"The company has also shared how open-material systems and interfaces will increase its technological breadth and help with faster integration of new solutions into existing industrial environments."

Commitment to Additive Manufacturing

Back in March, BMW reinforced its commitment to AM, stating that it was "actively shaping the transition of additive manufacturing into a fully integrated and widely established production technology – both technologically and organisationally." This week's update further underscores the company's dedication to this vision.

"This week's update further reinforces Göbel's earlier comment that automated, digitally networked process chains, open-material systems and open interfaces would form a 'key pillar' of BMW's scaling strategy."

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