GKN Aerospace and Materialise signed a LOI at the Paris Air Show, advancing the research, design, and production of polymer additively manufactured (AM) parts for the aviation industry.
GKN Aerospace and Materialise have announced a significant collaboration aimed at advancing the research, design, and production of polymer additively manufactured (AM) parts for the aviation industry. The renowned aerospace technology leader and global pioneer in 3D printing solutions, Materialise, signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with GKN Aerospace at the Paris Air Show, expanding their successful partnership.
The collaboration between GKN Aerospace and Materialise seeks to accelerate the certification process of the AM technology and push the boundaries of additive production for functional and flight-critical aerostructures, taking advantage of the unique manufacturing benefits it offers. GKN Aerospace and Materialise have already achieved significant milestones in AM, including the successful delivery and certification of multiple AM parts that are currently flying on aircraft.
The focus of this partnership extends from prototyping to the production of functional and flight-critical parts, aligning with emerging sustainability trends and opportunities within the industry. Particularly, the collaboration will emphasize electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, reflecting the industry’s growing interest in this area.
Jurgen Laudus, Vice President, Materialise Manufacturing, said, “This powerful alliance aims to leverage our combined expertise and the exceptional benefits of 3D printing to push the boundaries of innovation in the aeronautics industry. Together, we aim to drive technological advancements, respond more effectively to customer requirements, and shape the future of aerospace manufacturing.”
The potential of AM to revolutionize the aviation industry is significant, as it enables the creation of lighter and stronger parts that were previously unattainable with conventional manufacturing techniques. Moreover, AM offers time and cost reductions during the manufacturing process.
Russ Brigham, programme director, GKN Aerospace said, “Materialise is a valued AM supplier for GKN Aerospace and partnering with them on this ground-breaking technology has been a success for both companies. AM is out there and flying on aircraft around the world today and will be critical to achieve a more sustainable future of flight ahead.”
Both GKN Aerospace and Materialise bring extensive manufacturing experience in various AM printing technologies to the collaboration. Materialise, with over three decades of experience, has pioneered the production of certified parts for multiple industries and provides EASA 21.G-certified flying parts, software solutions, and consultancy services for the aerospace sector. GKN Aerospace, a global technology leader in additive manufacturing, has already achieved certification for load-bearing AM structures, with several other AM parts currently in use for commercial, military, rotorcraft, and space applications.
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The collaboration between GKN Aerospace and Materialise represents a significant step forward in the advancement of AM technology for the aviation industry. By leveraging their combined expertise and resources, both companies are poised to drive innovation, meet customer requirements more effectively, and shape the future of aerospace manufacturing.
