Cummins finalizing first metal 3D-printed production part

Columbus, Ind.-based Cummins Inc., a manufacturer of engines, filtration, and power-generation products, is finalizing its first production part created with binder-jet metal 3D printing technology. The part, a lance tip adapter used in high-horsepower engines, is moving through Cummins’ production part approval process for formal approval.

Producing this part through additive manufacturing provides a lighter-weight design, improved geometry for fluid and airflow, and the elimination of the added complexity of cross-drillings. The company hopes to have final approval of the part and to start official production later this year.