3D printing technology is being used in a variety of industries, small enough to help you build a small toy, large enough to manufacture aerospace precision devices. Previously we talked about 3D printed rocket engines and Siemens turbine blades. Now let's talk about the case of a 3D printing airliner again.
Why do passenger planes choose 3D printing?
Airbus, a European flight manufacturing company, has been investing in additive manufacturing technology. With absolute new design freedom, the company has acquired innovative production solutions that are unprecedented in the industry. In their opinion, 3D printers have great prospects.
1. 3D printed parts are rugged and sometimes stronger than those produced by conventional methods;
2. Reduce material waste and reduce production costs. The lighter the materials you use in the aerospace industry, the less fuel you need, and the company benefits again by reducing costs;
3. The 3D printer provides users with an excellent weight-to-strength ratio of 3D printed parts while reducing production costs.
Airbus's next step
Next, Airbus will continue to invest in additive manufacturing technology and mass production. And, since January 2019, the new 3D print stand will be shipped to the first aircraft! Airbus is working closely with GE Additive and GE Aviation and recently announced that 3D printed engine components have been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The 3D printed engine component is called the Power Door Open System (PDOS) bracket. They play a very important role in the architecture of the engine. They are used to maintain the engine on the ground to ensure the safety of passengers to the highest standards. Currently, these parts are produced from solid metal blocks, using additive manufacturing to produce 3D printed engine mounts, reducing waste by 90% and reducing the structure by 10%! These components will be installed in GE's GEnx-28 engine. According to General Electric, this is a different engine, the industry's most trusted engine and the best-selling engine.