SEMA 2016: 3D Printing Accelerates Automotive Innovation

The SEMA (Special Equipment Manufacturers Association) Show is an annual event that gathers thousands of exhibitors from the automotive aftermarket. At its 50th edition, the show presented a diverse range of products—from tire manufacturers to custom performance shops—and highlighted a New Product Showcase where companies unveiled the latest equipment, including Markforged’s Mark X.

In the automotive world, aluminum is prized for its strength‑to‑weight ratio, while carbon fiber is sought after for even higher performance parts. However, working with composites can be costly, complex, and is typically limited to large sheet‑based components such as hoods and dashboards.

Markforged’s suite of industrial 3D printers and advanced materials enables the automotive community to produce traditionally aluminum parts out of composites. This approach delivers lighter, stronger custom components that are especially valuable in high‑performance vehicles. For example, we printed a foot‑peg mount for a motorcycle that matched the original’s strength while weighing only half as much, and we personalized the part for our client STS Turbo.

SEMA also highlighted the critical role of tooling. Machining smooth surfaces for fluid dynamics or airflow is time‑consuming because it requires custom work‑holding fixtures. With 3D‑printed work‑holding tools that can withstand a shop environment, machinists can expand their capabilities and produce complex fixtures more efficiently.

Overall, the enthusiasm at our booth was overwhelming. Thanks to our dedicated team and the support of Superior 3D Solutions resellers, we made a lasting impression on every visitor.