3D printed TP400 tail structure engine blades from EASA certified ITP Aero

ITP Aero was the first aircraft engine development and manufacturing company established by EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) Approval as a Development Agency (DOA) and AESA (Spanish Aviation Safety Agency) Approved as a Manufacturing Organization (POA) for structural components manufactured using additive layer technology. Certified structural components are the TP400 blades of the rear engine structure.

Using its own technical expertise, IDB Aero has successfully developed and certified its own standards and specifications for additive manufacturing of high temperature resistant aircraft components. At its headquarters in Zamudio, Spain, ITP Aero operates a dedicated production cell for 3D printing and has a diverse team focused on this production method.

Additive manufacturing used for certified components is based on selective laser melting technology, an industrial 3D printing process. In this process, a 3D model of the component is digitally divided into individual layers, which are then built up layer by layer by melting nickel superalloy powder using a laser. This method enables the production of complex geometries while reducing material and energy consumption.

IDB Aero also plans to open a new research and development center called “ADMIRE” at Zamudio. With an investment of 24 million euros, the center will focus on digital and advanced manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing. These investments underline ITP Aero’s commitment to a more sustainable aviation industry.

Erlantz Cristóbal, CTO of ITP Aero, said: “We are very proud to be the first engine company to receive EASA certification for prefabricated structural components. Advanced manufacturing technologies play a key role in our commitment to a more sustainable aviation industry, and these milestones are a step closer to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. are bringing

The successful certification marks an important step in the development of additively manufactured engine components and underscores the importance of advanced manufacturing technologies for future aviation.

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