3D Printed Aircraft parts

[flyguy]

I have seen some examples of fittings, adapters, and such. Just now I am thinking trim tabs and tougher composite small parts down the line.

Interesting process.

Some machines for making prototypes sell in the vicinity of $1500 or less.

Check out the structure in the wing on this one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRDg4UB9Ajg&feature=player_embedded

[Ragwing nut]

Re: 3D Printed Aircraft parts

[TimHicks]

Re: 3D Printed Aircraft parts

We have a Stratasys machine at work (same as what was used on the propellor blades above). Our cabinet is only about 18" cube. I make parts for work regularly. Maybe I'll make some glovebox handles to see how they come out.

[flyguy]

Re: 3D Printed Aircraft parts

Tim,
Would you say that small lot production cost using this technology is reasonable? What I am suggesting is that "conventional" small lot production of parts that require casting, ect. are usually rather high per unit. Would this be better considering total cost?
Darryl

Edit: This one just popped up in my head...a streamlined nav, com, or GPS antenna made in two parts that fit together after the conductive part of the antenna has been placed between the two sections.

Also male mold or actual part for cowl-top spark plug "bumps."

[TimHicks]

Re: 3D Printed Aircraft parts

Yeah, I think that this is where rapid-prototype parts work out: in very small lots. The per-part cost is relatively high. But once you own the machine, the set-up cost approaches zero. So if you want to make one part, it costs about $10 (depending on how much of the material you use).
And if you want to make another part, it costs another $10.

So if you want to make thousands of plastic parts, it makes more sense to make a mold for a couple of thousand dollars, then mold the parts for pennies apiece.

There are other limitations to making parts on the Stratasys rapid-prototype machine. The parts are laid-up layer by layer. So the finished parts actually shows little parallel lines and grooves on the surface (about 0.010" apart).
The color of the part is limited to the few material colors that are available.
The strength of the part is weaker than typical molded parts. And the strength is not the same in all directions.

[Ragwing nut]

Re: 3D Printed Aircraft parts

We have a Stratasys machine at work (same as what was used on the propellor blades above). Our cabinet is only about 18" cube. I make parts for work regularly. Maybe I'll make some glovebox handles to see how they come out.

The WHOLE turbo prop engine is 3d printed.....