Boeing to 3D print components for AH-64 Apache attack helicopters
American defense companies are increasingly interested in additive manufacturing. Boeing plans to start testing the Apache main rotor system, which is entirely printed on a 3D printer.
The company intends to test the main rotor system for the attack helicopter in the spring of 2024. The tests will be part of Boeing’s efforts to reduce lead times and improve the supply chain.
The main rotor assembly was the first part to be produced using additive manufacturing. Boeing and ASTRO America presented it at the annual AUSA conference. It was printed on the world’s largest 3D printer in Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois.
ASTRO America is a non-profit organization that receives funding from the US budget. It received $95 million to provide engineering support for the development of additive manufacturing capabilities for large parts, including tank hulls.
Now let’s return to AH-64 Apache. The creation of the node took less than 9 hours. The printing itself took 8 hours, and another 45 minutes were needed to apply the 6000 series aluminum. It takes about a year to produce a component using conventional technology.
3D printing has a number of advantages. As you can imagine, one of our strengths is speed. In addition, the components created by additive manufacturing have a stronger microstructure.
When it comes to cost, traditional production can be more profitable than large volumes. If you need to create small batches, 3D printing will be cheaper. Boeing has already provided ASTRO America with a list of components for 3D printing.
