The new Airbus Helicopters 3D printing center features a range of machines, including those for printing titanium components, plastic parts, and a new addition for aluminum components.
Airbus Helicopters has reached a significant milestone with the inauguration of a new 3D printing center at its Donauwörth facility in Germany. This expansion of in-house 3D printing capabilities demonstrates Airbus Helicopters’ commitment to adopting innovative manufacturing processes and reducing environmental impacts. The new 3D printing center features a range of machines, including those for printing titanium components, plastic parts, and a new addition for aluminum components. These machines employ additive manufacturing, a technique that offers multiple advantages over traditional manufacturing methods.
One key advantage is weight reduction. Additive manufacturing enables the creation of lighter aircraft components, leading to decreased fuel consumption. This, in turn, contributes to lower carbon emissions during aircraft operations, aligning with the aviation industry’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint.
Stefan Thomé, Managing Director, Airbus Helicopters in Germany said, “Our extensive capabilities in this process along the manufacturing chain are a real competitive advantage. 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“
In addition to weight savings, additive manufacturing enhances resource efficiency. Unlike traditional manufacturing, which can result in significant material waste, 3D printing is more resource-efficient. It typically uses 1.5 times as much raw material as the final product, compared to the ten times or more needed for conventional manufacturing.
Furthermore, the flexibility of additive manufacturing is a significant benefit. It allows for the production of components with unique configurations, whether for prototypes, small series production, or individual pieces. This flexibility streamlines the development of prototypes and the testing of new designs.
Airbus Helicopters is no stranger to the advantages of additive manufacturing. Since 2017, the company has employed this method for mass-producing locking shafts used in the doors of Airbus A350 aircraft. Over the years, the Donauwörth facility has used approximately eleven tonnes of titanium powder for 3D printing these locking shafts. This application of additive manufacturing showcases the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The opening of the new 3D printing center highlights Airbus Helicopters’ dedication to expanding its capabilities in additive manufacturing. This move aligns with the broader aviation industry’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact while improving efficiency.
Airbus Helicopters’ commitment to adopting innovative technologies and sustainable practices will likely continue to shape the future of aviation manufacturing, as the industry seeks to achieve greener, more efficient operations.
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As the aviation sector continues to evolve, embracing advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing will play a crucial role in reducing environmental footprints, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing overall sustainability. Airbus Helicopters’ investment in this technology is a testament to its commitment to a more sustainable and innovative aviation industry.
