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Evaluating the Environmental Benefits of 3D Printing Based Part Production for Low-volume Automotive Applications

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: 3D printing is emerging as a promising solution for the automotive industry, as it offers economic advantages in small-batch, high-variety production and mitigates climate impact by eliminating mold fabrication. This study compares the carbonemission reduction potential and economic feasibility of fused deposition modeling (FDM)—the most widely used polymer 3D printing process—with those of conventional injection molding at the actual component level. The analysis shows that the environmental burden of mold manufacturing in injection molding is substantial, confirming the advantage of FDM in low-volume production. Specifically, for production volumes below 645 units, FDM performs better in reducing carbon emissions. These findings indicate that FDM can serve as a sustainable alternative for low-volume manufacturing in automotive applications.

Source: Journal of the Korean Society for Precision Engineering

DOI: 10.7736/jkspe.026.00016

Authors: Na Kyong Yun, Sung Won Choi, Gyung Bok Kim, Hyo Jae Kong

Institutions: Hyundai Motor Group (South Korea), Hyundai Motors (South Korea)

Language: English

Topic: Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technologies

Subfield: Automotive Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7208784105