Aircraft modelers will love this one. A FULL SCALE model of a turboprop, complete with 10-foot counter-rotating propellers. All parts rotate.
This aircraft engine model was created entirely using a 3D-printing process to produce the individual parts. The potential future of aircraft engine manufacturing is getting more interesting my friends.
I say so because NASA is currently experimenting with making rocket engine parts using a roughly similar metal powder/laser sintering 3D-printing process, and the results look promising. If successful, I see no reason why the process couldn't be used to make aircraft engine parts too. The phrase "Burn-out a Merlin" could have a whole new, positive meaning...
Here's a video of the turboprop model...most impressive.
[YT]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALA2Gp59_IM[/YT]
This aircraft engine model was created entirely using a 3D-printing process to produce the individual parts. The potential future of aircraft engine manufacturing is getting more interesting my friends.
I say so because NASA is currently experimenting with making rocket engine parts using a roughly similar metal powder/laser sintering 3D-printing process, and the results look promising. If successful, I see no reason why the process couldn't be used to make aircraft engine parts too. The phrase "Burn-out a Merlin" could have a whole new, positive meaning...
Here's a video of the turboprop model...most impressive.
[YT]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALA2Gp59_IM[/YT]
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