3D Printing

Aerospace and Defense

Industry Insights & Trends

Additive applications in aerospace explode

Additive technology is growing exponentially, and the aerospace industry is ready for innovation.

At RAPID/TCT Los Angeles, additive machine builders, material suppliers, and service vendors gathered to demonstrate the breadth and depth of 3D printing technology. Materials and methods are growing exponentially, and many of them have direct application to the aerospace industry. 

New materials, including composites, are ready for new roles in fuselage, wing and empennage applications, while durable new alloys decrease weight from the fan to the hot section of gas turbines. But even commodity resins are now in focus, as low cost, disposable drone swarms appear to be the next major step forward in combat aviation. 


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Below is the extended version of the video, featuring additional and longer interviews for a more in-depth exploration of the topic:

Written by

James Anderton

Jim Anderton is the Director of Content for ENGINEERING.com. Mr. Anderton was formerly editor of Canadian Metalworking Magazine and has contributed to a wide range of print and on-line publications, including Design Engineering, Canadian Plastics, Service Station and Garage Management, Autovision, and the National Post. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and part design for a Tier One automotive supplier.