Airbus Helicopters has unveiled its new 3D printing centre at its Donauwörth site, allowing Airbus to operate three machines for components made of titanium, four for plastic parts and one for aluminium.
The 3D printing capabilities, also known as additive manufacturing, use laser beams to melt metal or plastic powders, creating desired shapes layer by layer. It can be used for serial production and components for prototypes such as the all-electrical CityAirbus NextGen VTOL and the experimental Racer high-speed helicopter.
“Our extensive capabilities in this process along the manufacturing chain are a real competitive advantage,” said Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany. “Among other advantages, 3D printing can reduce the weight of aircraft components, which leads to less fuel consumption. Such potential can bring financial benefits and contribute to reducing CO2 emissions during operations.”
Airbus’s new 3D printing facility will additionally provide a significant increase in resource efficiency in the manufacturing process as well as flexibility, allowing for components in new configurations to be printed individually or in a small series for testing purposes.
Image: Airbus Helicopters
