Solize Corporation and HP Partner with Nissan to Create Aftermarket Parts

Once again, the automotive and additive manufacturing industries are working together. As part of Nissan’s NISMO Heritage Parts program, Solize and HP are working together to produce 3D printed aftermarket parts for the Skyline GT-R R32 / R33 / R34. And if Nissan naturally turned to 3D printing, it’s because it’s not the first time that the Japanese automaker has used technology. On the occasion of the release of Rogue One, Nissan had transformed one of its vehicles using 3D printing . But this time, additive manufacturing will not be used to customize cars, but to create parts that are not available today.

When a vehicle model is upgraded, overhauled, or simply discontinued, it can be very difficult and expensive to find replacement parts. This is why, after having identified with Nissan which were the ideal parts to design with 3D printing, Solize called on HP and its Multi Jet Fusion technology. The ideal solution for producing complex parts, while reducing costs. Yasutoshi Kudo, President of Solize Corporation, explains: “ We have jointly developed 3D printing technology with Nissan for commercial parts that have been discontinued and take charge of manufacturing the parts. With HP’s market leading 3D printing technology, we are able to support industries including automotive with sustainable production that delivers fast, high-quality and cost-effective results.“

Parts manufactured using HP High Reusability PA 11 (photo credits: Nissan)

HP High Reusability PA 11 thermoplastic

For the moment, the companies have chosen to 3D print harness protection parts from the thermoplastic of HP High Reusability PA 11. This material offers high mechanical properties and great design flexibility. The design of this harness protection is only the beginning of the collaboration of the three companies, in particular because additive manufacturing allows Nissan to have a “virtual inventory”. In addition, 3D printing offers sustainable production, significantly reducing the rate of industrial waste.