Rheinmetall invests in 3D printing with GoProto ANZ for LYNX KF41 parts

GoProto ANZ, an Australian 3D printing and manufacturing service bureau, successfully delivered locally 3D printed LYNX KF41 parts to Rheinmetall Defence Australia (RDA) as part of its Land 400 Phase 3 offer to the Commonwealth of Australia.

GoProto is the first Melbourne-based 3D printing provider to work with RDA and provide critical products for its LYNX KF41 Infantry Fighting Vehicle. On the back of the Land 400 Phase 3 roadshow for the Commonwealth’s acquisition of up to 450 IFVs, GoProto successfully engaged with RDA’s Team Lynx using a range of digital technologies to inspire design prototypes for innovative solutions.

“GoProto’s 3D printing technology allowed quick, clear and efficient communication around the design of the vehicle connectivity package involving teams juggling work from home lockdowns in different states,” said Simon Marriott, Managing Director of GoProto ANZ. “As a SME offering local additive manufacturing services, we are able to respond quickly to design challenges and put different prototypes with full production functionality into the hands of the Rheinmetall team. We look forward to more opportunities to incorporate 3D printing as an Australian industry capability with Rheinmetall and a sovereign advantage for the Australian Defence Force.”

A range of functional PA12 components was 3D printed with Multi-Jet Fusion technology, with properties to rival injection molding. Delivered components included handles and communications panels. RDA will embark on an extensive user testing analysis to select the best solution among 3 rugged yet lightweight communications panels for soldiers’ rapid dismounting within vehicles.

Technological evolution and innovation in land combat and protected vehicle capability is integral to Australia’s warfighting edge. The design changes proposed in the 3D printed components aim to improve the soldier’s capability in integration, networking and communications.

Three LYNX vehicles are currently competing in Risk Mitigation Activity trials conducted in Australia. This extensive testing regime, considered world-leading, is putting the vehicles through a range of trials including lethality, mobility and blast tests.

If successful, the LYNX fleet will be manufactured in Queensland at Rheinmetall’s new Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence at Redbank southwest of Brisbane. The signing of the Hungarian Armed Forces as the first LYNX customer also means Australian SMEs will see future potential export opportunities for Australia.