State-funded Chinese company successfully tests 3D-printed micro turbojet engine, generating 160 kg of thrust at 13,000 feet altitude.
In a groundbreaking achievement, the Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) has successfully tested a 3D-printed micro turbojet engine, marking a significant step forward in the field of aerospace and 3D printing. The test flight took place in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region [1][2][3].
While specific details about the 3D printers and filament used in the project remain undisclosed, it is clear that the printers used were industrial-grade and capable of producing high precision, high temperature-resistant, and strong, lightweight components. AECC likely employed Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), or Electron Beam Melting (EBM) technologies, which are common in the aerospace industry [1][2][3].
These advanced 3D printing technologies allow for complex geometries, including cooling channels and optimized internal structures, essential for micro turbojet engines. Some of the best 3D printers for this application would be the EOS M 290 (DMLS/SLM), SLM Solutions SLM 280, Renishaw AM 400 (DMLS), and Arcam EBM systems [1][2][3].
The engine, described as a real, working engine with significant thrust and altitude performance, is a testament to the potential of 3D printing in aerospace. During testing, the engine reached an altitude of 4,000 meters (nearly 2.5 miles) and launched with a thrust level of 160kg (over 350lbs) [1][2][3].
AECC claims to be the first to successfully fly a test run using their 3D-printed engine, a feat that is seen as an "icing on the cake" for the project. The success of this endeavour has sparked interest in future projects for other areas, using the successful 3D-printed micro turbojet engine as a proof of concept for flexible manufacturing in aerospace [1][2][3].
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References: [1] Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) [2] 3D Printing Industry [3] Tom's Hardware [4] Tom's Hardware Newsletter Subscription
The Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) possibly utilized Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), or Electron Beam Melting (EBM) technology, which are commonly employed in the aerospace industry for the successful 3D printing of their micro turbojet engine. This project showcases the potential of data-and-cloud-computing technology, as these advanced 3D printing systems are enabled and optimized by cutting-edge technology.
