Airbus has chosen Stratasys Direct Manufacturing to manufacture 3D-printed polymer components for its A350 XWB aircraft programme.

As part of the arrangement, Stratasys will employ its FDM technology and ULTEM 9085 material to 3D-print non-structural parts, including brackets, and other components used for system installation.

The 3D-printed parts will enable Airbus to achieve enhanced supply chain flexibility and cost-competitiveness.

The company will also be able to reduce material consumption and waste.

“Our expertise in building parts ready for installation on the aircraft, along with our unique process controls and quality procedures, will allow Airbus to improve competitiveness leveraging on the technical benefits of 3D printing.”

In addition, Stratasys will be able to print and deliver various parts on demand to Airbus, bringing improved reactivity, shorter turnaround times and reduced inventory costs.

Stratasys Direct Manufacturing CEO Joe Allison said: “Our expertise in building parts ready for installation on the aircraft, along with our unique process controls and quality procedures, will allow Airbus to improve competitiveness leveraging on the technical benefits of 3D-printing.”

In 2014, Stratasys’ ULTEM 9085 material had been qualified for applications in the production of flying components on Airbus aircraft.

Last week, the company announced that its new 3D printing solution for certifiable aircraft interior components was selected by China-based Western Tool & Mold.

Western Tool & Mold will use Stratasys’ Fortus 900mc aircraft interiors (AI) certification solution to produce aircraft cabin components that meet the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification requirements.

Image: Additive manufacturing takes flight with 3D-printed bracketing for the Airbus A350, produced by Stratasys Direct Manufacturing. Photo: courtesy of Stratasys.