Overview
Embracing 3D printing from the early days, aircraft engine manufacturers capitalized on the benefits of producing highly-complex, low volume components to reduce the cost of jet engine production, a major factor in aircraft operating costs. The innovation of this sector has demonstrated the ability to design intricate parts for improved functionality, rather than for manufacturability, and made additive manufacturing a must have for leading aerospace and defense manufacturers. The optimized topology of these builds allows for parts to maintain their same strength and load requirements while significantly reducing weight and playing a role in a key goal of the aerospace industry – to improve fuel efficiency.
The new freedom of design created by selective laser melting makes it possible to produce jet engines with clean combustion, improved durability and higher efficiency. Another advantage of the SLM technology is the possibility to integrate several parts into one, thus avoiding joining processes. These reduced assemblies lead to a simplified manufacturing process, lower costs per part and shorter lead times. Moreover, customers in need of small batch sizes, such as spacecraft and satellites, also benefit from the SLM technology that enables the production of functional prototypes and end-use components for aerospace customers.
The SLM 280 2.0 Twin fulfills the requirements aerospace customers for optimum material quality. The high-performance, highly productive machine provides patented multi-beam technology with up to two 700W lasers. In addition, bi-directional powder application helps shorten production time of individually manufactured metal components.
SLM Solutions provides a wide range of suitable materials for the aerospace industry, including nickel superalloys (IN719, IN625 and HX), titanium and aluminum alloys, which meet the stringent requirements of aircraft engine manufacturers for metallographic and mechanical properties. Our automatic powder management by means of vacuum technology takes place in a closed-loop system within an inert gas atmosphere, achieving an increased level of work safety through contact-free powder handling.
The experienced experts of the SLM Solutions team are always available to help you take advantage of this exciting technology and advance your company toward qualification for the production of aerospace components.
How can the SLM Solutions team support your project?
Key benefits
- Ability to lightweight designs through organic and aerodynamic geometries without compromising mechanical performance
- Improved functionality and part consolidation with designs unable to be traditionally manufactured
- Supply chain disruption as parts can be printed on-demand and manufacturing internalized
- Shortened development time for new components without the need for tooling
- Optimized use of high-strength alloy powders with minimal material waste
- Cost savings through part integration and optimized supply chains