Arconic to provide Airbus with 3D-printed metal parts for commercial aircraft

Arconic (New York, NY), which specializes in advanced manufacturing technology, has entered into two agreements to supply Airbus with 3D-printed metal parts for the airplane maker's commercial aircraft.

Arconic will supply 3D-printed ducting components made of high-temperature nickel superalloys for the A320 family of aircraft. Advanced nickel superalloys offer superior heat resistance for these components, which flow hot air from the aero engine to other parts of the airframe.

Under a second deal, Arconic will supply 3D-printed titanium airframe brackets for the A320 platform. The company 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. That agreement established Arconic as an innovation partner to Airbus in the fast-growing metal 3D printing (also known as additive manufacturing) space.

Arconic's comprehensive capabilities, from materials science and additive manufacturing expertise to aerospace parts qualification experience and supply chain management, are helping to grow its partnership with Airbus. These latest deals will draw on Arconic's full range of 3D printing technology capabilities, including laser powder bed and electron beam processes.

For more information, please visit www.arconic.com.