Summary. 3D printing for aerospace has revolutionised the sector, from lightweight aircraft components to large-scale engine parts, boosting efficiency and reducing costs. The technology’s adaptability promises a sustainable future for aerospace, ushering in a new industrial revolution.
The aerospace industry has been an early adopter of 3D printing services, adapting this technology and helping it evolve as far back as the 1980s.
As a scalable solution, 3D printing offers flexibility for the future, but also enables the kind of technical production innovations that should ensure that the aerospace industry continues to thrive.
There are certain key areas where 3D printing is making an impact on the aerospace industry:
- It is in use to produce numerous fixtures, jigs, gauges and templates, and bringing down costs in the process
- 3D printing provides placeholder parts which act as surrogates for training purposes
- It is in use to manufacture metal brackets that perform a structural function inside aircraft
- Prototypes are increasingly 3D printed, enabling designers to refine the form and fit of finished parts
- 3D printing services produce interior aircraft components such as cockpit dashboards and door handles
- This technology is increasingly responsible for manufacturing lighter and more efficient engine and turbine components.
3D Printing Of Large Scale Aircraft Engine Components
In 2016, Rolls Royce revealed the largest 3D printed engine component to date, followed by a successful first test flight.
This component formed part of the Rolls Royce Trent XWB-97 engine, and it was the result of a collaboration between the manufacturers and the University of Sheffield’s Department of Material Science and Engineering.
The component was a titanium front piece with a 1.5 metre diameter, housing 48 aerofoils.
An Airbus A380 then completed a successful test flight with the Trent XwB-97 replacing one of its old engines.
The 3D component was printed using electron beam melting (EBM) technology.
This demonstrates the versatility of 3D printing for aerospace, going beyond the research and prototyping stage to practical, finished industrial application.
The Production Benefits Of 3D Printing
Aircraft parts are, typically, produced in short runs. Historically, this has meant that high costs are in-built.
However, the use of additive manufacturing is now helping to bring production costs down, along with introducing new efficiencies.
It enables manufacturers to produce short runs of intricate, and large scale, aircraft parts.
Many of these crucial components will also be more lightweight and more resilient than traditionally manufactured parts.
Reducing Aircraft Weight With 3D Components
Weight is a crucial factor in reducing the environmental impact of flying.
By reducing the weight of an aircraft, 3D printed parts help reduce its air-drag, which then reduces fuel consumption.
At a given speed, aircraft weight will increase drag, because of how the wing must then generate sufficient lift. But the most significant impact weight has is at cruising altitude.
The heavier the aircraft’s weight is, the lower its cruising altitude will be, because of the air density required for lift. The greater the air density, the more impact draft will have. This then results in more fuel consumption.
Carbon fibre materials and shape memory alloys can reduce the weight of aircraft, while enabling greater efficiency in construction.
Eliminating Expensive Tooling Changes
In traditional manufacturing processes, different parts will require different tooling settings, all of which add to the expense and the time taken in producing aircraft parts.
3D printing offers aerospace manufacturers the opportunity to implement what is effectively tool-less manufacturing.
This means they can produce modified parts or upgrades on demand, without needing to stock considerable numbers of components.
3D printing services can output complex and lightweight structures which are highly stable.
3D printing can also consolidate multiple smaller parts into a single component piece.
This helps streamline production processes while making them more cost effective and reducing waste.
Aerospace Design, Production And 3D Printing
3D printing is influencing and altering the entire aerospace workflow process.
At the design stage, 3D comes in the form of conceptual modelling, including sophisticated scale models.
For prototyping, there is a wide use of 3D technology throughout the aerospace industry. This can range from full-scale enclosures to concept models.
3D printing is revolutionising aircraft production. It enables the rapid, on-demand manufacture of components, and helps to reduce production cost while enhancing aircraft performance.
As a flexible manufacturing solution for aerospace, 3D printing also provides increased capacity for customisation in production, for both interiors and functional parts.
Preparing Aerospace For The Future With 3D Printing
Like many other sectors, aerospace faces various future uncertainties, including the impact of Brexit and the impact of environmental regulations.
To continue to thrive, it must be able to both react rapidly and be proactively engaging with change.
3D printing is set to play a major part in how aerospace embraces the future.
From research and development right through to ongoing aircraft maintenance and upgrading, 3D printing has the capability to improve efficiency while bringing down costs.
Incorporating 3D printing services and technology into existing workflows at key stages can speed up processes and provide greater clarity for designers and manufacturers around innovative improvements in aircraft performance.
In aircraft production, every part requires certification for its airworthiness, but increasingly there is realisation that 3D printed parts will become the industry norm as their consistency, resilience and reliability is proven in the field.
FAQ: 3D Printing for Aerospace with Central Scanning
What is 3D printing for aerospace, and how does it work?
3D printing for aerospace involves using additive manufacturing techniques to create parts and components for aircraft. These components can range from small fixtures to large-scale engine parts, all designed to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Why is 3D printing becoming popular in the aerospace industry?
3D printing is popular in aerospace because it offers flexibility, precision, and the ability to produce lightweight components that enhance aircraft performance. It also allows for rapid prototyping and reduced production costs.
What are the advantages of using 3D printing in aerospace?
The advantages include the ability to produce complex and lightweight structures, reduce manufacturing costs, eliminate the need for expensive tooling changes, and create custom components on demand.
How does Central Scanning support 3D printing for aerospace?
Central Scanning offers advanced 3D printing services tailored to the aerospace industry, providing solutions that range from prototyping to the production of lightweight and durable components.
What types of aerospace components can be 3D printed with Central Scanning’s services?
Central Scanning can 3D print a wide range of aerospace components, including engine parts, structural brackets, cockpit dashboards, and more. These components are designed to meet industry standards for performance and durability.
How does 3D printing improve the production of aerospace components?
3D printing improves production by allowing for the creation of intricate designs that would be difficult or impossible with traditional manufacturing. It also reduces waste, shortens lead times, and allows for on-demand production of custom parts.
Why should I choose Central Scanning for my aerospace 3D printing needs?
Central Scanning has a proven track record in providing high-quality 3D printing services for the aerospace industry. With advanced technology and expertise, we ensure that every component meets the highest standards of precision and reliability.
What is the process for getting started with 3D printing services at Central Scanning?
To get started, you can contact Central Scanning directly to discuss your specific needs. Our team will guide you through the process, from initial consultation to the final production of your aerospace components.
Can Central Scanning help with certification for 3D printed aerospace parts?
Yes, Central Scanning is experienced in producing 3D printed parts that meet the rigorous certification requirements of the aerospace industry. We work closely with clients to ensure that all components are certified for airworthiness.
The Next Industrial Revolution Is Now
The world’s first entirely printed plane was designed and flown by engineers at the University of Southampton in 2011.
Since then, the influence of 3D printing services on the aerospace sector has continued to grow.
It is a technology that is leading the second industrial revolution, and that can help position aerospace as an industry of the future and for the future.
For more information about our 3D printing solutions, please use our online contact form, or call us direct on 01527 558 282.
