Mahle 3D printing developments offer potential for improved component design and performance
By Jim Gibbins - 1st September 2020
Germany – Stuttgart-based development engineering specialist, Mahle GmbH, in co-operation with sports car manufacturer, Porsche and mechanical engineering company, Trumpf, has produced high-performance aluminium pistons using 3D printing techniques for the first time. The pistons were tested successfully on an engine test bench for Porsche’s 911 GT2 RS sports car. Where standard forged pistons have reached the limits of their performance potential, it is conceivable that the power of the 700hp Porsche engine could be boosted by 30hp with this piston as well as offer an associated increase in efficiency, Mahle stated.
Mahle is specifically developing expertise in 3D printing to enable it to support customers in the field of alternative drives, including electric drives, by supplying suitable components for drives, thermal management, and mechatronics.
