Turbomeca

Turbomeca has started production of helicopter engine components using a 3D printing process at its facility in Bordes, France.

The Bordes facility is said to be one of the first-of-its-kind plant in aerospace propulsion industry to use additive manufacturing technology.

The company is using selective laser melting (SLM) techniques to produce fuel-injector nozzles for its Arrano test and production engines.

Ardiden 3 combustor swirlers will also be produced using the same manufacturing process.

Unlike traditional manufacturing processes, additive manufacturing process produces parts to a 3D computer-aided design model.

The process builds up to 100 micrometres thick layers of fine metal powder to produce complex-shaped components.

"The process builds up to 100 micrometres thick layers of fine metal powder to produce complex-shaped components."

The SLM technique involves a computer-controlled laser that shoots beams onto a nickel-based super-alloy powder bed, to melt the metal in the desired areas.

Using additive manufacturing technique, the Arrano fuel-injector nozzle is made from a single piece of material and exhibits advanced injection and cooling functions, Turbomeca said.

The company already operates SLM equipment at the plant, and plans to install more machines in the coming years.

The latest move is part of Turbomeca’s ‘Future Line’ programme, which is designed to improve the company’s manufacturing capabilities.

As part of the programme, Turbomeca new processes such as additive manufacturing and high velocity oxy-fuel coatings, to improve its compressor and turbine blade manufacturing capabilities at Bordes.

Image: Turbomeca is using selective laser melting techniques to produce Arrano engine components. Photo: courtesy of Rémy Bertrand / Safran.