Mercedes-Benz Trucks (Stuttgart, Germany) is using the latest selective laser sintering (SLS) printing process (a type of 3D printing method) for plastic spare parts as the standard production method in the Customer Services & Parts sector. As of September 2016, 30 genuine spare parts can be ordered and supplied from the 3D printer quickly, economically, and in any quantity.
The available plastic spare parts consist of covers, spacers, spring caps, air and cable ducts, clamps, mountings, and control elements, among others. The parts can be ordered using the special spare part number under which it is recorded in the order code lists.
The challenge in the spare parts business lies in securing supply, including spare parts for which there is only a low demand in small quantities every year and for model series that are no longer produced. The SLS process addresses these challenges, as all spare parts are available on demand at short notice.
For more information, please visit www.mercedes-benz.com/en/mercedes-benz/vehicles/trucks.