Leading 3D printing supplier and developer Stratasys has unveiled a supplier agreement with the New York Yacht Club and American Magic to help the team bring the competitive benefits of 3D-printed carbon fiber to the water raceway. This combination of three elite racing programs will be a challenger for the 36th America’s Cup being held in March 2021. It is the oldest event in international sports.
American Magic will rely on Stratasys technology to produce reliable, repeatable end-use parts for its competitive sailing yacht. The team feels that with the Fortus 450mc 3D printer, engineers can design and 3D print new parts more quickly and accurately after each qualifying race.
Similar to their counterparts in the aerospace sector, additive manufacturing’s ability to create lightweight production parts helps improve speed and operating efficiency. Furthering this aerospace connection is that one of the team’s official partners is Airbus. Additionally, the boat’s sails, mast, and hull are constructed primarily of carbon fiber – just like most aircraft.
American Magic is one of seven international entrants in the America’s Cup, which will take place in Auckland, New Zealand. American Magic joins Stratasys customers in automotive sports, motor cross, and professional winter games. The team is currently using 3D printing for brackets, fittings, and mounts, as well as different prototypes to help refine the boat’s aerodynamics and function.