Print my Plane (An Overview of Additive Manufacturing in the Aerospace Industry)
Written by Joanna Carbajal
Now that you know you can 3D print your pizza, let’s talk about 3D printing the next plane you board. The aircraft industry has successfully developed commercial production using additive manufacturing.
Gartner estimates that 75% of commercial aircraft will use 3D printed parts by 2021. By that same year, Gartner also predicts that 20% of businesses will have an internal startup to develop solutions using additive manufacturing – following Airbus’ example.
Let’s take a look at some examples:
Image Source – Thor, Airbus’ 3D printed unmanned aircraft vehicle, took its first flight in November 2015 flying for 40km.
ABI Research predicts that the US aerospace and defense industry will produce a 3D printing value of $17.8 billion in 2026, which accounts for a large portion of additive manufacturing growth. Additive manufacturing has allowed the aerospace industry to reduce the weight of planes due to the reduction of parts, which means lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Apart from weighing less, printed plastic parts also perform better and provide superior electrical insulation according to Javelin. With additive manufacturing, aircraft parts can be made in unique shapes and geometries that are not possible with traditional manufacturing. Additive manufacturing is also more cost-effective and more environmentally friendly as there is less waste created than with traditional manufacturing.
References
Aerospace Opportunities Demand Quick Resolution 3D Printing Issues
How Airbus uses virtual reality and 3D printing to help make and sell planes
The Future of 3D printing in Aerospace
