In September 2020, miniFactory and NLR (Royal Dutch Aerospace Center) signed a cooperation agreement to provide a certification process for manufacturing parts for the aerospace industry using FFF 3D printing technology. The focus of the cooperative development is to use miniFactory's ULTRA 3D printer and Aarni process monitoring system to print carbon fiber reinforced high-performance polymers and metal-filled polymers for the manufacture of aerospace parts.
Aerospace applications
Aerospace is one of the most influential scientific and technological fields in the world today. 3D printing technology has huge application advantages in the aerospace field. It can effectively reduce the weight of parts and realize complex and difficult-to-machine parts without losing the strength of the parts. The manufacturing can significantly improve material utilization, and can quickly repair damaged parts of parts. Therefore, 3D printing greatly improves the ability of rapid production, assembly, and delivery of customized parts, bringing unprecedented efficiency improvements in this field.
However, parts manufactured in the aerospace industry are subject to strict regulations, and no matter which manufacturing method is used, the process must be flawless. miniFactory and NLR jointly responded to this challenge and found a certification program suitable for parts manufactured by FFF technology to verify the effectiveness of the manufactured parts. The process monitoring tool developed by miniFactory is an important foundation of the project, which can verify the quality and repeatability of the printed parts. With the gradual increase in 3D printing applications, new applications will continue to make breakthroughs. It is safe to say that 3D printing monitoring will continue to grow in the next few years.
Olli Pihlajamäki, chief operating officer of miniFactory, said: "This is a very attractive project, in line with our corporate strategy. Our goal is to produce reliable 3D printed terminal equipment and use it to manufacture precision parts. NLR's research and development in the aviation industry With a history of 100 years, they are great pioneers in this field, with rich experience and expertise; they have won the credibility of the project and laid a good foundation for achieving common goals. Such projects will continue Research and innovation, there is no shortcut to success, long-term dedication is necessary."
Bert Thuis, Director of NLR's Structural Technology Department, also said: "NLR is always committed to the development of the latest technology and pushing innovation to new heights. 3D printing not only provides great support for innovation in the aerospace field but also in other fields. It is an excellent tool that provides an important driving force for more flexible design and lighter weight. We are very excited about the cooperation between miniFactory and NLR. This is a very important extension of the NLR-MAMTEC activity. It will bring FFF technology The field of research is pushed to new heights."
win-win
In the past few years, the share of 3D printing in manufacturing has greatly increased. The changes in 3D printing technology have occurred through close collaboration between all parties, and all parties play an important role in it. The world's leading chemical companies are also using known high-quality raw materials to manufacture materials suitable for 3D printing. Research institutions such as NLR provide support to end customers to ensure that they provide the best methods and solutions for the different needs of various customers. In addition to miniFactory and NLR, more material manufacturers and customers will participate in this project.
Olli Pihlajamäki, chief operating officer of miniFactory, said: “All parties will bring their expertise and skills into the project, thus creating a broader prospect. All of us can understand the role and requirements of participating in the project, and we are committed to achieving the common goal. Efforts and cooperation are the key to success."