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Graphite Additive Manufacturing explains how advanced materials and manufacturing techniques, originally honed in motorsport, are now being used in the motorcycle world
Technology developed in the pursuit of lap time gains can have a significant impact when applied to other industries. Graphite Additive Manufacturing, a company with a background in 3D printing components for motorsport, has embraced such opportunities through its work supporting Langen Motorcycles, a British low-volume manufacturer.
In the world of bespoke motorcycles such as the Langen Two Stroke, where craftsmanship and performance are paramount, 3D printing has revolutionised low-volume production. Graphite Additive Manufacturing has produced key components for the Langen Two Stroke, including throttle cable retainers, chain guides, fuel tank cover mesh, belly pan mesh and brackets. These parts were made using Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) PA12, with vapor smoothing to ensure a sleek, waterproof finish.
The advantages of 3D printing for this type of low-volume, bespoke production are substantial when compared to traditional methods like composites and injection moulding.
Cost Efficiency in Low-Volume Runs
A major benefit of 3D printing is the ability to produce cost-effective parts in low volumes. Traditional methods such as injection moulding require expensive tooling, which can only be justified for high-volume production runs. For smaller runs, such as those required for custom motorcycles like the Langen, 3D printing eliminates the need for costly moulds, allowing for on-demand production without high upfront costs.
Materials such as PA12 provide excellent mechanical properties at a lower price compared to composites, making them ideal for functional, bespoke components. Additionally, 3D printing generates less material waste compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing, further reducing costs and promoting sustainability.
Design Freedom and Complexity
3D printing offers unparalleled design freedom. Unlike injection moulding, which is constrained by tooling and part geometries, 3D printing allows for highly intricate and organic shapes that would be impossible to create using traditional methods. This is particularly beneficial for high-performance motorcycles, where every component can be optimised for function, weight, and aerodynamics.
For the Langen Two Stroke, this meant we could produce lightweight, functional parts with…
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