Adopting of 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, in the aerospace industry took place many years ago and this technology has been evolving to provide better and enhanced properties and functionality.
Aerospace industry includes commercial, industrial and military applications and 3D printing can be used and applied from end-use products to prototypes to manufacturing aids, involving various departments from design to manufacture to operation to maintenance.
How is 3D printing involving in various department and stages?
Designing Concepts and Communication, and Validation Stage where designers can make use of 3D printing to produce concept models for showcasing the components and assemblies of the project. To produce the concept models for better communication on the design intention, or functional prototypes with high detail, accuracy and engineering materials. Below are some of the 3D printing technologies for consideration:
- ColorJet Printing (CJP)
- Material Jetting Printing (MJP)
- Non-Contact Membrane (NCM)
- Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
- Stereolithography (SLA)
- Direct Metal Printing (DMP)
- Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
Preproduction and Production Stage where 3D printing can be used for low-volume production parts, customize jigs and fixtures, and manufacturing aids for quick and lower cost without investing in high-cost tooling.
With the benefit of 3D printing, design freedom allows complex design, lightweight design and tailored design for specific aircraft with part consolidation and topology optimization.
What are some of the applications that can be 3D printed?
- Engine compartment
- Cabin accessories
- Air ducts
- Panels
- Metal components
- Manufacturing aids – storages, holders, jigs and fixtures, etc
Newly Launch Flame Retardant Material!
The recently launched material, Figure 4 High Temp 150°C FR Black, is a rigid, flame-retardant black material that can be used for production parts requiring UL94 V0 rating as well as FAR 25.853 and 23.853 capability.
It provides long-term environmental stability with an injection molded-like surface quality.
This material is recommended for consumer, transportation, and aerospace applications that require performance at high temperatures like brackets, covers, and circuit board housings and covers.