3D printing company Stratasys has signed a deal with NTT IndyCar Series competitor Arrow Schmidt Peterson Motorsports. The agreement sees the professional racing team integrating Stratasys’ Fortus 450mc and F370 3D printers for the production of functional prototypes, tools and end-use components for its race cars.
Stratasys’ technologies and additive manufacturing in general are finding their place within the world of motorsports. The on-demand and flexible nature of AM empowers racing teams and automakers to innovate and find solutions to improve vehicle performance and manufacturing efficiency. Arrow SPM is the latest racing team to adopt Stratasys’ FDM 3D printing, joining Team Penske, McLaren Racing, Andretti Autosport, and others who already leverage the company’s 3D printing tech.
“Competitive racing is the ideal test track to demonstrate the power of FDM technology,” said Pat Carey, Senior Vice President at Stratasys. “At Stratasys, we provide the industry’s only tested solutions that win in high-requirement environments—again and again. And as racing teams consistently push the boundaries of innovation, the larger automotive and aerospace industries are taking notice. We’re pleased to prove the repeatability and reliability of our additive manufacturing solutions alongside a great partner like Arrow Schmidt Peterson.”
At Arrow SPM, Stratasys’ Fortus 450mc—compatible with Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber and ASA materials—will be used to produce a range of components, including functional prototypes, product components and manufacturing tools with high strength and stiffness. As an industrial-grade machine, the F370 3D printer will enable the racing team to fulfill repeatable, high quality production.
Arrow SPM was founded in 2001 by former IndyCar driver Sam Schmidt and Canadian businessman Ric Peterson. To date, the team has over 70 wins, 70 pole positions and seven Indy Lights championships under its belt. Its continued success is supported in part by its willingness to innovate.
“At our core, Arrow Schmidt Peterson Motorsports is committed to being the best—anytime the best is required,” said Jon Flack, President of Arrow SPM. “We’re not just aiming to win IndyCar championships and Indianapolis 500s, but sustaining excellence, from design all the way to final part production.
“Stratasys is an elite partner, allowing us to transform typical manufacturing processes with 3D printing by learning on race day and implementing by the following weekend. We’re confident this collaboration will not only prove out in the shop—but produce wins on the track.”
