3D printing helped Comp engineers test and make quick changes to this debris shield.

The engineering division at the Comp Performance Group (CPG) has added a Cube Pro Duo 3D printer to its tool chest with expectations to reduce development time and improve product quality.

This gear was created for a wireless throttle body. Precise accuracy and durable ABS plastic allowed it to be installed for a trial fit to check operation.

Featuring the largest build platform in its class, the Cube Pro Duo uses an “additive manufacturing” process that builds ultra-high resolution layers–as fine as 70 microns or the width of a human hair. It can create prototypes in ABS plastic or compostable PLA plastic by heating and extruding plastic wire through nozzles on X and Y axis sliders. The build platform simply moves down as the layers emerge. Prototypes can be executed in house, drastically reducing time between revisions since previous prototypes had to be outsourced.

“The ability to make changes in a matter of hours versus days or even weeks is a huge advantage for us,” says Chris Douglas, VP of marketing at CPG. “The engineering team can maintain its momentum through projects and accomplish goals in a more efficient manner. This translates into higher quality products and faster technological advancements.”

Layers of heated plastic are extruded through a nozzle on X & Y coordinates with a highest layer resolution of 70 microns, or the width of a human hair.