HVAC inlet fan funnels improve fan efficiency and acoustic performance. They are typically made from metal and can be large depending on the particular HVAC system. Prototyping a new metal funnel requires the creation of a machined wood mandrel for approximately $10,000 with a subsequent cost for each prototype averaging $175. Lead time to make the mandrel is at least one month.
With the acquisition of a large-format F770™ FDM® 3D printer, Daikin engineers chose to 3D print the fan inlet funnel prototype, avoiding the need to fabricate expensive tooling. This solution offered a much faster and easier way to make and validate design concepts. The F770 offered sufficient build volume to print the part in once piece with the necessary accuracy.
