The appeal of 3D printing is strong and growing among manufacturers in all sectors. For those in the aerospace industry, this technology offers a way to quickly and economically produce lighter parts that reduce airplane mass and fuel consumption.
Advances in meter-mix technology, process monitoring and bead control are making automated dispensing technology a more viable option for aerospace assembly applications
Adhesives are widely used throughout an aircraft. Jet engines contain structural adhesives, threadlockers, retaining compounds and thread sealants for hydraulic components.
Plastic injection molding, metal casting and metal stamping are age-old processes that form the backbone of manufacturing. Traditionally, there's no better way to mass-produce plastic or metal parts.
Manufacturers love established assembly line technologies not only because they produce expected results. But, also because they occasionally provide an unexpected benefit.
Whether it's a car or a computer, a toy or a toaster, almost every assembled product has at least a few threaded fasteners. Indeed, 62 percent of ASSEMBLY's readers use threaded fasteners of one form or another to assemble their products.
Aircraft wings have been assembled the
same way for decades. But, engineers at
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
(MIT) and NASA have developed
a flexible aerostructure that is produced
from hundreds of tiny, identical pieces using
composite lattice-based cellular materials.
Strong and lightweight, carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) offers numerous benefits to automotive and aerospace manufacturers. Many engineers are intrigued by potential applications for the material, yet remain frustrated by joining challenges.
GREENSBORO, NC—Honda Aircraft Co. announced Monday it is expanding its global headquarters here with an extra 82,000 square feet for expanded wing assembly and more parts storage for the private jets rolling off the production line.
John Glenn, the famous astronaut and politician, wrote about his history-making earth orbit flight, “As I hurtled through space, one thought kept crossing my mind: Every part of this rocket was supplied by the lowest bidder.” Today, we are all John Glenn.
WEST LAFAYETTE, IN—Global defense and security company Saab has announced plans to bring a new assembly plant to Purdue University’s campus, creating up to 300 new jobs.