3D Printing in Aeronautics: BAE Systems acquires another Stratasys 3D printer

Aerospace is one of the first sectors to have used additive manufacturing, in particular metal 3D printing, whether to produce prototypes, spare parts or end-use parts. It includes the production of turbines, engine parts, aircraft seats, and more. Additive manufacturing is becoming more and more popular in the sector because it enables the designs to be more complex and lighter at the same time, not to mention the speed and reduced cost of production. However, we know that nowadays AM went far beyond aeronautics – be it land vehicles or complex ships, the manufacturers are incorporating 3D printing in their operations, and BAE Systems is no exception.

BAE Systems is a multinational aerospace, defense and security giant based in the UK. They design, manufacture, and support complex surface ships, combat vehicles, artillery systems, missile launchers, and combat and trainer aircrafts. In other words, they cover the Land, Air, and Sea defense and security. Since innovation and efficiency are key for their operations, BAE Systems had embraced the value of AM technologies as early as 20 years ago; and by 2016, the British company had already 3D printed more than 2,500 parts. Among other things, the company has integrated 3D printed components into the Typhoon fighter aircraft; for example, the 3D printed cockpit floors for the Typhoon were made from ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and ASA materials.

Additive manufacturing enabled BAE Systems to design the Typhoon fighter aircraft. (Credits: BAE Systems)

Earlier this year, BAE Systems announced that they signed a new agreement with Renishaw. They invested in several Renishaw 3D printers at its product and process development center in Samlesbury, Lancashire. That is in addition to various solutions from Stratasys, with who they have quite a long history of collaboration – it all began in 2006 with BAE deciding to invest in Stratasys’ 3D printing technologies.