3D printing is considered a key technology of the future and opens up great potential, especially in the manufacturing industry. The Korean tire manufacturer Hankook Precision Works is well aware of this and is investing heavily in this area. A state-of-the-art 3D Printing Convergence Technology Center has now been opened at the company’s headquarters in Daejeon, which is equipped with the latest 3D printers and test equipment on an area of over 600 square meters.
An expert team of 15 specialists oversees the entire production process – from equipment design to manufacturing and post-processing – using 3D printing technologies.
One of the main goals of the Technology Center is to further develop Hankook Precision Works in the field of precision tire molded parts. Particular focus is on the development and mass production of new Kerfs – fine grooves on tire surfaces – and new tire molds.
Thanks to its applicability in the production of EV tires and high-performance vehicles, 3D-printed kerf is currently experiencing increasing demand. It enables optimization of product-specific properties, such as noise reduction, firm grip and superior handling. Interestingly, the 3D-printed tire mold significantly shortens the production process compared to conventional molds and guarantees consistent tire quality when used in multi-part puzzle molds.
Hankook Precision Works, which was founded back in 1973 and excels in special casting and precision machining techniques, intends to continuously increase its investment in 3D printing technologies. This should help to open up new business opportunities and continue to shape the industry.
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