Airbus

Airbus has signed a cooperation agreement with North Western Polytechnical University (NPU) in China to indentify new ways of applying 3D printing technology in commercial aviation.

Under the partnership, NPU will manufacture test specimens of titanium alloy parts using its Laser Solid Forming technology according to Airbus specifications.

Samples will be measured and assessed by Airbus.

NPU President Weng Zhiqian said: "This project is a test for our 3D research capability and we are confident we will deliver satisfactory results on quality and on time that will establish a solid foundation for further cooperation in this field."

Airbus China COO Rafael Gonzalez-Ripoll said R&T joint projects with Airbus and Chinese universities are an important part of the growing strategic partnership between Airbus and China.

"This project is a test for our 3D research capability and we are confident we will deliver satisfactory results on quality and on time."

"This initiative is further evidence of Airbus’s continuing search for capturing the best ideas in the world and turning them into industrially effective technologies to ensure the sustainable development of aviation," Gonzalez-Ripoll said.

Airbus has been exploring the use of 3D printing technology to produce individual parts or further larger airframe structures for its range of aircraft.

In addition, the company said it is working towards spare part systems with the technology to help produce cost-effective, out-of-production aircraft spare parts.

3D printing or additive manufacturing technology is cost-effective, and helps in the manufacturing of components that are up to 55% lighter than those produced using traditional manufacturing methods.

Image: Representatives of Airbus and NPU during the signing ceremony of 3D printing cooperation. Photo: courtesy of Airbus SAS.

Defence Technology