The specific applications of 3D printed titanium alloys in aircraft parts mainly include:
• Aircraft structural parts: such as fuselage load-bearing components, wing structural parts, etc. These parts require high strength and light weight. 3D printed titanium alloys can manufacture complex shapes and excellent performance structural parts, improving the overall performance and fuel efficiency of the aircraft.
• Engine parts: For example, GE Aviation's T25 sensor housing is the first 3D printed titanium alloy engine part certified by the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States. It has been widely used in GE90 engines, showing the important position of 3D printed titanium alloys in the manufacture of high-temperature and high-strength engine parts.
• Landing gear bracket: For example, the front landing gear bracket of the Airbus A350 XWB is made of 3D printed titanium alloy, which uses the high strength and light weight advantages of titanium alloy to improve structural performance.
• Hinges and connectors: The application in consumer electronics such as folding screen mobile phones also reflects the ability of titanium alloy 3D printing technology to manufacture complex hinge structures. This technology is also applicable to the manufacture of complex hinges and connectors in aircraft.
• Turbine blades and fan blades: Small and complex parts such as turbine blades and fan blades in some aircraft engines are made of 3D printed titanium alloys to improve performance and reduce weight.
• Large structural parts: GKN Aerospace plans to build a 3D printer that can print titanium alloy parts up to five meters long, which can be used to manufacture large aircraft structural parts in the future.
In summary, the application of 3D printed titanium alloys in aircraft covers structural parts, key engine parts, landing gear brackets and complex connectors, etc., using its high strength, lightweight and complex shape manufacturing advantages to promote the upgrading of aviation manufacturing technology.