Exploring 3D Printing Beyond Manufacturing: Reducing Engine Repair Time Through Additive Manufacturing Techniques

Exploring 3D Printing Beyond Manufacturing: Reducing Engine Repair Time Through Additive Manufacturing Techniques

Pratt & Whitney, a United States aerospace manufacturer company, has stated that they are using the additive manufacturing process to boost the repair time of their GTF (Geared Turbofan) engine. The technique used here is metal Direct Energy Deposition (DED), which is said to decrease several steps in its ongoing repair methods with fewer machine changes and reduced cycles of heat treatment. The company states that the process is believed to save 60% on processing time and recover $100 million worth of components through additive manufactured repairs within its MRO process over the next five years. Many other 3D printing OEMs, such as ADDiTEC, Optomec, and Nikon, have found success in the metal 3D printing repair market in the aviation and defence sector. Thanks to 3D printing, engine repairs don't take as long anymore.