The aerospace industry has been utilizing Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology for years to produce critical parts for aircraft engines and structures. One of the most notable examples of AM in aerospace is the production of turbine blades, which require complex geometries and cannot be created by traditional manufacturing processes. By utilizing AM, manufacturers can produce more intricate designs that provide better performance and are often lighter in weight.
AM technologies like Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and Laser Directed Energy Deposition (L-DED) are used to fabricate complex aerospace components by depositing welding wire or metal powder using an electric arc or a laser to melt and bond the material together, creating an intricate 3D-printed structure.
FasTech applies both these technologies to print components in various alloys, like Titanium, Inconel, Steel, Aluminum and many more. Below are a few examples.
(a) Impeller in Inconel 625
(b) Automobile component in Stainless steel
Figure 1: Metal components printed at FasTech
WAAM technology is widely utilized for creating large parts for aerospace applications. It is a more economical option when compared to the traditional methods used by the aerospace industry. This technique is particularly useful in the production of engine components, large fuselage sections, and landing gear sections. The WAAM process comprises using metal wires as the raw material that is melted and deposited in layers, creating the required geometry and shapes.
The benefits of AM are numerous, including cost and time savings, increased design flexibility, and improved part performance. For instance, Airbus has been using AM technologies in their A350 XWB aircraft, where AM has helped to reduce airframe weight by up to 30% compared to traditional manufacturing techniques, resulting in significant fuel savings.
Another advantage of additive manufacturing is its ability to produce parts with excellent mechanical properties, high durability, and heat resistance, providing a more extended life to the manufactured aerospace components. Also, the reduction in the weight of parts during Additive Manufacturing (AM) is crucial in reducing the weight of aircraft, leading to significant savings in operational costs and increased fuel efficiency.
This is why, as an expert one-stop-shop specialized in Additive Manufacturing (AM) using WAAM and L-DED as core technologies in our manufacturing process, it’s a pleasure for us at FasTech to be exhibiting at the world’s largest and most important aerospace event, The Paris Air Show 2023 next June 19th-25th.
This 54th edition is set to bring together over 2000 exhibitors and 100,000 trade visitors in the industry. It presents a unique opportunity to meet with key players, showcase ingenious innovations to the world, create technological and industrial partnerships, and explore promising commercial prospects.
If you’re planning to attend the show, visit our Booth D162 in Hall 3 at the Virginia Economical Development Stand. Our additive manufacturing pros are available to answer your inquiries.
For more information about FasTech, visit our website at www.fastech-engineering.com.
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The FasTech Team.
