Another key factor in accelerating casting production is the use of 3D sand printing to produce sand cores and molds. Producing these directly from digital design data eliminates the need for conventional tooling for the printed cores and molds, shortening the path from CAD to casting.

For motorsport engineers, the benefits go beyond faster production. 3D sand printing enables intricate internal channels and thin-walled structures that can be difficult to achieve with conventional tooling. Revised geometries can also be transferred directly into the digital production workflow, without first modifying physical core boxes or pattern equipment. This makes it possible to respond quickly to design updates between testing cycles.

The combination of geometric freedom, rapid design implementation, and integrated manufacturing supports the demanding pace of motorsport development—where components must withstand high mechanical and thermal loads while meeting high quality requirements.

The results translate into short production timelines for complex cast components. A cylinder head can be produced in around 6 to 7 weeks, depending on its complexity and specific requirements. A supersport gearbox can be ready for testing after approximately six weeks of production, while complex engine blocks incl. liner coating and honing can be manufactured in around nine to ten weeks.

For motorsport teams, these short lead times mean earlier testing, faster feedback, and more time to refine designs before the next race!