Krailling, Germany - WilliamsF1 (Oxfordshire, UK), one of the world’s leading Formula One race teams, has ordered two EOSINT P 385 systems from EOS, following a six-month technical assessment of the technology. Williams decided to keep the evaluation machine and has since ordered a second system. It has also indicated its intent to acquire additional machines over the next three years.
“This investment gives us a significant increase in our ability to produce parts in very short timescales. We selected the EOSINT P 385 because it gives us the best combination of build speed, quality, and component size, and we intend to make full use of the expanding range of materials that can be sintered on these machines,” says Alex Burns, chief operating officer of WilliamsF1.
Williams will use the laser-sintering technology for building prototypes for wind tunnel testing and mock-ups. These systems will also be used to fabricate components for new vehicles, such as the FW28 race car, which is a large departure from Williams’ previous designs. The laser-sintered prototypes were critical for wind tunnel testing because regulation changes forced Formula One teams to grapple with recouping power loss through aerodynamic efficiency gains.
Jim Fendrick, vice president EOS North America, confirms the interest in laser sintering of both plastic and metal parts. Fendrick stated, “Whether it is passenger cars or high performance racing, EOS is increasingly called upon for prototypes and production components.”
EOS (www.eos.info) and WilliamsF1 have also entered into a sponsorship agreement. Under the agreement, EOS has been designated “Promotional Partner of the WilliamsF1 Team.” The collaboration demonstrates EOS’ commitment and strengthens its position in the motor sport industry.