In the motorcycle industry, there's a growing demand for stronger, lighter, and more affordable bikes. Top manufacturers are exploring innovative solutions to reduce weight without compromising performance, leveraging materials like continuous carbon fiber composites. However, traditional manufacturing techniques and materials present constraints, particularly concerning costs and sustainability, thereby driving the industry towards exploring alternative approaches.
A leading motorcycle manufacturer faced the challenge of reducing the weight of small structural parts without sacrificing performance or affordability. The available alternatives to aluminum, particularly those involving composites, demonstrated inadequacy, and the idea of investing in new technology seemed daunting due to its high costs and inflexible manufacturing processes. Specifically, the absence of automation and integrated software presented challenges, leading to potential delays in time-to-market and increased expenses.
9T Labs stepped in with our fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites and Additive Fusion Technology (AFT)™. Collaborating with the manufacturer's R&D team, we focused on redesigning rocker arms to reduce weight while maintaining high performance. Through meticulous assessment and testing, we developed a manufacturing approach that met stringent performance and cost requirements while significantly reducing part weight.
The collaboration yielded a 30% reduction in rocker arm weight while having no material waste, validating the effectiveness of AFT™. This breakthrough enables the production of intricate and complex part geometries typically achievable only with metals. Moreover, successful evaluations of other components with similar weight-reduction potential signal a promising future for lighter, high-performance motorcycles.
Discover how 9T Labs' Additive Fusion Technology™ and smart factories can support your motorcycle manufacturing needs. Contact us to explore how we can help you create stronger, lighter, and more affordable bikes.