Australian metal 3D printing specialist AML3D has announced a renewed partnership with aircraft manufacturer Boeing. Earlier this year, Boeing commissioned AML3D to 3D print prototype aluminum aircraft parts. The parts must match AS9100D quality assurance requirements for “flying” components. Testing was conducted to ensure that the AML3D was consistently able to provide products and services that meet the needs of aerospace customers. The partnership between the two began in 2021, when AML3D was offered their first contract by Boeing, and has expanded since then.
With this contract renewal the partners have agreed to expand the scope of the project to supply other 3D printed parts. This initiative will allow the Australian manufacturer to increase its business with Boeing. “AML3D has already demonstrated to Boeing that our proprietary WAAM metal 3D printing technology produces high quality parts on time and according to the specification,” said Andrew Sales, managing director of AML3D. “The extended purchase agreement is strategically important as it allows AML3D to become part of Boeing’s supply chain, which aligns with achieving our growth goals for the aerospace industry.”
AML3D’s Acermy printer (Photo credits: AML3D)
AML3D and Boeing: A Partnership to Develop 3D Printing in Aeronautics
Boeing has turned to AML3D for its metal 3D printing solution. Using a combination of welding, robotics, materials engineering and software, the Australian manufacturer has developed a 3D printing system capable of creating complex shapes. The printer which ALM3D selected to produce the parts required by Boeing is the Arcemy. It uses Wire Additive Manufacturing, or WAM® ,a patented technology that is based upon the Directed Energy Deposition (DED) process. The machine also uses inert gas shielding, which allows it to remain in the open air. As a result, the Arcermy is able to manufacture large parts at 70% less cost than traditional techniques, while producing 85% less waste.
AML3D is now one of many 3D printing companies working with the world’s largest aerospace manufacturers to develop prototypes and end-use parts. These include EOS and Materialise, which have received certification from Airbus for their aviation materials, and Aitiip, which aims to improve energy efficiency in aerospace through additive manufacturing. To learn more applications of additive manufacturing in the aerospace industry click HERE.
Photo credits : 3Dnatives
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*Cover photo credits: Boeing