This solution allows Hitachi Rail to adopt industrial 3D printing technology, utilising materials such as ULTEM 9085 and Carbon PEEK to produce spare parts for its trains.
The railway industry continually grapples with the challenges of spare parts availability and associated costs. ROBOZE's additive manufacturing technology offers a practical solution, enabling quicker and more cost-effective production compared to traditional machining methods. By implementing the ARGO 500 system, Hitachi Rail can replace conventionally machined metal parts, substantially reducing costs and delivery times.
This collaboration goes beyond the supply of machines; Hitachi Rail will also benefit from ROBOZE’s engineering services and consultancy provided by expert teams in both the United States and Italy, ensuring continuous and specialised support.
Hitachi Rail is set to open its state-of-the-art railcar factory in Washington County, Maryland. This $70 million facility, which will deliver the new fleet of 8000-series railcars for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority as its initial order, will leverage the wider Hitachi Group’s technological expertise to become its most advanced digital site. By partnering with ROBOZE, Hitachi Rail will utilise advanced 3D printing solutions to produce prototypes and railway spare parts.
"Our partnership with ROBOZE underlines our commitment to delivering advanced, high-quality manufacturing for our customers. The partnership will enable us to harness 3D printing to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs for producing prototypes and railway spare parts," said Luca D’Aquila, COO Hitachi Rail Group and CEO Hitachi Rail Italy. "This additive solution will be used at our Naples site and our new digital factory in Washington County, Maryland allowing us to respond effectively to our customers' needs."
Hitachi Rail’s decision to adopt ROBOZE technology underscores the growing significance of additive manufacturing in the railway sector. This technology not only boosts production efficiency but also represents a pivotal step towards greater sustainability and innovation in transportation.
"ROBOZE continues to prove itself as a reliable and innovative partner for companies aiming to rethink their production and push the boundaries of progress through technology," said Alessio Lorusso, Founder & CEO of ROBOZE.
This collaboration with Hitachi Rail marks another significant milestone in ROBOZE's mission to transform industrial manufacturing on a global scale.
