Transforming NASCAR: The Impact of 3D-Printed Parts on the Cup Series

NASCAR made a big change in 2021 with its Next Gen platform. It introduced new rules and a fresh design, making cars more similar to their street versions, like the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, and Toyota TRD Camry. These changes also focused on making the sport more affordable and leveling the playing field, which is crucial in a competitive environment.

The chassis for NASCAR’s Cup Series is now built by Technique Chassis, which offers a modular design. This means every team starts with the same base model. To stand out, teams are now looking at the smallest details, including the use of 3D printing to create custom parts.

3D printing, or additive manufacturing as it’s technically known, has been a game-changer in various industries. Minnesota-based Stratasys is a leader in this field. According to Fadi Abro, a senior director at Stratasys, additive manufacturing allows companies to build objects layer by layer. This is different from traditional methods that cut away material to create parts.

Think of additive manufacturing like sculpting with clay, compared to traditional methods that involve chipping away at a solid block of marble. In NASCAR, Stratasys supplies parts such as ducts and covers that help cars perform better on the track. They work closely with teams to meet specific needs, ensuring that the design and functionality are spot on.

Traditionally, CNC (computer numerically controlled) machines were used to create car parts, but this method has its drawbacks. Abro notes that additive manufacturing offers more freedom in design. You can create complex shapes without the limitations faced in CNC machining, where making intricate designs can be costly and time-consuming.

The industrial 3D printers from Stratasys aren’t your average home gadgets. They range from $20,000 to $600,000 and allow for creating parts that were unimaginable a few years ago. For example, a shop in California called Blazin Rods used 3D printing to enhance a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle with custom parts. Their efforts won them the Best Engineered Vehicle award at SEMA, showcasing the potential of 3D printing in the automotive world.

Recently, Stratasys renewed its partnership with the Joe Gibbs Racing team and became the official 3D printing partner of NASCAR. With over 35 years of experience, they are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in racing. Abro points out that today’s materials are stronger and more heat-resistant than ever, highlighting significant advancements in the technology.

The future of 3D printing in NASCAR looks promising. It’s all about improving speed and efficiency in production. For example, if multiple versions of a part are needed, having a few faster printers is more efficient than having many slower ones. This speed is crucial for teams that need to quickly adapt and test new components during races.

NASCAR teams like Joe Gibbs Racing are utilizing 3D-printed parts to optimize airflow in their vehicles. This aerodynamic efficiency is crucial for maintaining control at high speeds, cooling the engine, and ensuring driver comfort. Abro emphasizes that 3D printing is not just quicker but also cheaper, requiring less specialized labor compared to traditional manufacturing methods.

In summary, the combination of Next Gen technology and advanced 3D printing is revolutionizing NASCAR. Teams now have the tools to innovate rapidly, ensuring they stay competitive in a fast-paced sport.

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