How 3D printing is driving efficiency in aviation

3D printing is one of the disruptive technologies driving efficiency in the aviation industry. Producing the myriad of parts that make up an aircraft using additive manufacturing (AM, or 3D printing) rather than traditional methods is proving faster, lighter, less wasteful and more financially viable. Airbus’ new A350 XWB, which entered service with Qatar Airways at the start of this year, counts more than 1,000 components manufactured by leading 3D printing provider Stratasys and its FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) Production Systems. And this is just the start; within a generation it is possible that we’ll be flying in aircraft that are almost entirely 3D printed. (Read more...)