GKN AM

A consortium-led by GKN Aerospace is working to formulate titanium powder for use in additive manufacturing (AM) of aerospace components.

Named Titanium Powder for net-shape component manufacture (TiPOW), the research programme will also develop tools and techniques to produce the powder at a lower price, GKN Aerospace said.

Partners in the consortium include UK-based Phoenix Scientific Industries and Metalysis and the University of Leeds.

GKN Aerospace engineering and technology senior vice-president Russ Dunn said: "We believe AM has the potential to revolutionise the design and manufacture of aircraft, unlocking innovations in low drag, high-performance wing designs and lighter, even more efficient engine systems that will dramatically improve airframe performance and reduce noxious emissions and noise."

"TIPOW will give us a better understanding and insight into improving aeroplane performance and will undoubtedly deliver more technological advances to the industry."

Backed by the UK’s Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) and Innovate UK, the TiPOW programme will initially develop titanium alloys and powders with characteristics suitable for AM, and will later design methods to produce AM-designed materials at lower costs.

TiPOW will also evaluate methods to re-use and recycle titanium material as well as study potential applications for the recycled material.

ATI chief executive Gary Elliott said: "TIPOW will give us a better understanding and insight into improving airplane performance and will undoubtedly deliver more technological advances to the industry.

"This programme highlights the capabilities of the UK aerospace, promotes healthy competition and will lay the groundwork for even more innovation."

GKN said its aerospace business will make use of GKN Powder Metallurgy division’s expertise in metal powders and precision engineered components.

Image: Operation of the EBM machine to produce a solid metal part from powder. Photo: courtesy of GKN Aerospace.