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PRESS RELEASE
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TRUMPF showcases new applications for additive manufacturing in the aerospace sector at the International Paris Air Show
Monday, 17 June 2019

TRUMPF is currently taking part in the world's largest aerospace industry exhibition, the Paris Air Show, where it is demonstrating how additive manufacturing can improve satellites and aircraft. Satellites are subject to a whole array of ever more stringent requirements. On the one hand, they need to be as light as possible, because every kilogram that a launch vehicle carries into space costs the client several hundred thousand euros. At the same time, however, satellites must be robust enough to withstand the tremendous forces experienced during launch.

"With a market share of over 20 percent, the aerospace sector is one of the world's most important industrial users of additive manufacturing. We are steadily expanding our market share and helping to establish the process as a key technology," says Thomas Fehn, TRUMPF general manager additive manufacturing (AM) with responsibility for sales. Weight reduction is equally important for aircraft because it leads to a significant drop in fuel consumption. This reduces both their environmental impact and costs. Additive technologies are the perfect match for the aerospace industry because they enable engineers to create parts that are both lightweight and robust. These methods only add material where it is actually needed, while conventional methods such as milling and casting often struggle to eliminate superfluous material. 3D printers are also adept at handling light metals such as aluminum and titanium, and AM engineers enjoy much more freedom in the design process because they are not confined by the limitations of traditional production methods.

The importance of 3D printing in the aerospace industry

TRUMPF offers expertise in both the key methods required by the aerospace industry: laser metal fusion (LMF) and laser metal deposition (LMD). LMF is carried out entirely within the confines of the 3D printer, with a laser building up the part layer by layer from a powder bed. LMF technology is particularly suitable for creating complex parts for engines, combustion chambers, specialist aerospace components and similar applications. In contrast, LMD, or laser metal deposition, uses a laser beam to build up layers on the surface of a part, with the metal powder being injected through a nozzle. LMD can also be used to rapidly generate very large parts. Typical applications include prototype development and repairs to large parts such as gas turbines and compressor blades. "Thanks to our LMD and LMF capabilities, we are perfectly placed to offer our aerospace customers 3D printing solutions that match their needs," says Fehn.

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TRUMPF Inc. Forming, Metal Removal Equipment, Machine Tools, Laser Cutting, Laser Welding, Battery Holders, Bending, Additive Manufacturing, Marking Equipment
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Metal Processes