Though simple in design, the oil pan is a vital part of a vehicle engine’s lubrication system. It is typically made of steel and contains a rubber gasket that prevents the oil from leaking. Over time, however, various things can put stress on the gasket and cause it to wear out, resulting in oil leakage.
Aware of this, the University of Victoria (UVic) Formula Motorsport team has been using 3D-printed oil pans for the last five years. The pans are made of CRP USA’s Windform Top-Line composite materials, which are carbon filled and 3D printed using the laser sintering process.