Airbus to use 3D printed superalloys on commercial aircraft

Manufacturing company Arconic will supply 3D printed nickel and titanium parts

Airbus has entered an agreement with Arconic, a technology and engineering manufacturer, to be supplied with 3D printed metal parts for its commercial aircraft.

Arconic will supply 3D printed ducting components made of high-temperature nickel superalloys, as well as 3D printed titanium airframe brackets, under two separate agreements for the A320 family of aircraft.

Advanced nickel superalloys offer better heat resistance for these components, which flow hot air from the aero engine to other parts of the airframe. Arconic expects to deliver the first parts under both agreements in the second quarter of 2017.

These agreements build on Arconic’s April 2016 deal with Airbus for 3D printed titanium fuselage and engine pylon components.