3D printer Jet Engine

[Australis]

Thought you guys might like this, it's pretty cool.

Australian researchers have created the world's first 3D-printed jet engine in a manufacturing breakthrough that engineers expect will lead to cheaper, lighter and more fuel-efficient jets.


The partnership between Monash University and spin-out company Amaero Engineering has captured the attention of Airbus, Boeing and defence contractor Raytheon.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-02-26/australian-researchers-create-first-3d-jet-engine/6262462

 

[Stoo]

Just to be clear that's just a small turbine working as an auxilliary power unit, not something that would actually propel an aircraft. But then it's just a proof of concept, and a rather impressive one too. I wonder how the properties of 3d-printed metal compare to traditional forging - a turbine\jet engine is a very demanding environment.

 

[Australis]

I was wondering that too, I hope more details will filter out soon.

 

[Santaman]

Turbines usually have Inconel or other nickel super alloy combustion chambers.. that stuff is almost indestructible and a real bitch to make things out of, if they can print that it would be a real feat...

 

[Dryson]

NASA is already testing 3D Engines and has had very good success. One day an entire 3D printed rocket will lift off from the planet with the first humans aboard.