Metal 3D printing startup VELO3D stood out last year with its innovative unsupported laser powder bed fusion process, which offers more design freedom than most metal systems. Aerospace manufacturing has been known to be one of its largest target markets since the company was commercialized in 2018, and since then, at least two OEMs in the industry are using its Sapphire 3D printing system to make parts. Recently, it just announced a partnership with Colorado-based Boom Supersonic, which is committed to building the fastest supersonic passenger jets in history.
"Boom is reimagining the entire commercial aircraft experience, including the design, construction, and materials used. The CEO of VELO3D stated that our technology is designed to help innovators like Boom rethink what is possible, with little or no post-production Processing conditions empower advanced design capabilities and enable a completely new production method. "Boom needed more than just prototypes, and we're excited to help them create the first 3D printed metal part for an aircraft. The speed of movement will exceed the speed of sound. "
Founded in 2014, Boom is backed by multiple investors and has more than 130 employees to help realize its vision: use supersonic travel to make life easier for people living in it. The company hopes to bring business, family and culture closer together, and has recognized that 3D printing will help accelerate the process. Recently, Boom re-established a partnership with Stratasys to make 3D printed parts for its XB-1 supersonic demonstration aircraft, which is exactly what VELO3D will do.
"High-speed air travel relies on proven safe, reliable, and efficient technology. By partnering with VELO3D, we will align with leaders in additive manufacturing to print flight hardware for XB-1. VELO3D helps us understand metal additives Manufacturing capabilities and limitations and the positive impact it may have on our supersonic aircraft. "Boom Supersonic XB-1 Production Supervisor said," We look forward to sharing details about aircraft development and improving system performance after XB-1 flight. information."
The 55-seater, Mach 2.2 (1,687 mph) aircraft is the first independently developed supersonic jet to consist of more than 3,700 components, combining a variety of advanced technologies, such as an improved delta-wing platform, effective variable Geometric propulsion system and advanced carbon fiber composite materials. Because the demonstration aircraft—a verification platform called a “baby boom” —has such demanding accuracy, performance, and functionality requirements, in order to reliably provide safe and efficient flight, the boom is using VELO3D's intelligent fusion technology to The metal flight hardware that makes jets because it offers more design capabilities. Jets because they provide more design freedom, process control, and quality assurance; these qualities are critical in challenging design environments.
Boom also works with VELO3D to leverage its customer support partnerships, market expertise and ability to guarantee consistent production quality. Supersonic Flight hopes that by using metal 3D printing, it will be able to improve system performance and accelerate the development of its XB-1. Eventually it will fly at twice the speed of sound, as it will be in any future aircraft.
The two companies have jointly conducted validation tests that have been successful in terms of accurate performance and results. VELO3D has developed two 3D printed titanium alloy flight hardware components that will be part of the ECS system and ensure that supersonic aircraft can safely fly under any conditions; these components will be installed on prototype aircraft early next year. In addition, the company provided Boom with a 3D printing engine "mouse" to verify the additive process.
"These mice allow high engine operating line testing to ensure we can fly safely in all conditions," Boom Supersonic's manufacturing engineers said in a VELO3D blog post.
"The 3D printed mouse helped Boom execute the test plan and validate predictions, and further promoted the plan." Not only did Boom Supersonic partner with VELO3D, it also acquired 3D printed flight hardware, and the company's engineers also had the opportunity to become familiar with 3D printing in supersonic aircraft Limitations and capabilities.