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MV-22B Osprey, the first successful flight demonstration of a critical aircraft component built using 3-D Printed Parts Takes Flight.

V-22 test 3-d printed parts

An MV-22B Osprey equipped with a 3-D printed titanium link and fitting inside an engine nacelle maintains a hover during a July 29 demonstration at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Maryland.

The aerospace industry is gravitating towards 3D printing not only because of the associated government funding, but because of the immense design benefits that come with it. Re-engineered improved parts of a new design can be pushed to fleets electronically, downloaded and printed “on demand” anywhere. These redesigned components can reduce the weight of the part, improve performance, safety, and efficiency, while reducing supply chain costs with a much quicker turn cycle.

Furthermore, parts with complex geometries and components can be fabricated without the additional cost normally associated with traditional fabrication methods. There are no “minimum” quantity of manufacturing production runs, delivery delays, transportation costs or valuable storage space needed as components can be printed when and where needed most. This is particularly valuable to the US military while on overseas deployments and taxpayers looking for efficient cost savings. (U.S. Navy video/Released)

The production of 3D-printed parts in engines signals a paradigm shift that is happening with the emergence of “additive” manufacturing. Additive 3D-printing not only offers the opportunity to design parts never before possible. New advances in laser technology and 3D-printing machines are allowing scientists to experiment with new material configurations by mixing and combining metal powders in more innovative ways.

The cost-effective, machinening tool-less production of lightweight components reduces fuel consumption, material costs and CO2 emissions

Engine and turbine parts as well as cabin interior components are typical applications for industrial 3D printing / Additive Manufacturing. Components with complex geometries and defined aerodynamic properties can be manufactured quickly and cost-effectively. This is why leading aerospace companies have integrated aerospace 3D printing into their planning of future production strategies.

 

Check out our “Experimental Aircraft and Flight Testing” collection of vintage style aviation art by – Squadron Posters! http://www.squadronposters.com/product-category/aircraft/experimental/

Experimental Aircraft and Flight Testing SP FB

 

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