Aerospace
Achieving new heights with 3D printing
Navigate the future of aerospace with the shorter lead times, more affordable small series, and unrivaled design freedom that additive manufacturing (AM) can offer. Through our Form 1-accredited manufacturing of flying parts, industry-leading software, and specialist consultancy services, we engage with the entire aerospace supply chain, from OEMs to eVTOL start-ups, and from MROs to supplier tiers. Discover how we can support you at every stage of your journey.
Why choose Materialise Manufacturing?
On-hand expertise
Benefit from trusted support on even the most demanding projects and get advice on design and material choices.
Historical performance data
Gain valuable insights from performance data on hundreds of aerospace builds through our dynamically updated data lake.
Complete process documentation
Easily compile the records you need to ensure your use of AM complies with all necessary guidelines and standards.
Applied R&D support
Get the help you need to develop and qualify new 3D printing applications and materials to meet your business needs.
Materials and certifications
Why choose 3D printing?
Increase profitability
Smart and strategic use of AM unlocks efficiency gains and streamlines your supply chain. Using 3D-printed aircraft parts can reduce stock risk and warehousing costs for spare parts, as well as reduce downtime for AOGs.
Gain agility
Short lead times and low tooling costs give you manufacturing agility in times of uncertainty. AM’s design freedom opens opportunities for more flexible designs, smaller series, and faster iterations to keep up with the pace of change.
Future-proof your operations
From bionic design and new materials to reimagined supply chains, the future of aviation is unimaginable without AM in it. Enjoy the benefits today and build up the knowledge, processes, and systems you need for tomorrow.
Embrace innovation
With AM, more is possible. Fast-iteration design, rapid prototyping, a complete rethinking of components and assemblies. AM allows you to innovate differently and achieve new, better, and more sustainable solutions faster.
Typical 3D printing applications in aerospace
Cabin interiors
Low-criticality parts like seat row indicators, display shrouds, armrest caps, and overhead storage panels are ideal candidates for small-series AM production.
Cockpit parts
AM offers a flexible and affordable way to produce small series of customized paneling, housings, and dashboard components in strong but lightweight materials.
Structural parts
For low- to non-critical parts like air ducts, brackets, and cable guides, AM lets you create custom parts that work with the available geometries.
Production tools
From assembly aids like hand-held jigs and quality inspection fixtures to cable twist wheels, AM lets you develop tools that are smarter, lighter, and more ergonomic.
Aftermarket parts
When spares and retrofit parts are needed fast, and in low volumes, on-demand 3D printing offers solutions other manufacturing methods can’t compete with.
Ground support equipment (GSE)
Make lightweight, durable, and customizable parts for maintenance tools and other ground support equipment. Use AM's unparalleled design freedom and zero-cost complexity to rapidly produce industrialized small series.
AM training for aerospace businesses
Learn how to bring additive manufacturing into your business and take advantage of all it has to offer, with our tailored training courses. Our team can build a curriculum that focuses on the materials, technologies, and core competencies that truly suit your needs
The Materialise Mindware: Aerospace Training provided a valuable overview (maturity in the aerospace industry, design and certification guidelines, technologies, and processes), for the implementation of additive manufacturing for serial production within aerospace. Examples of printed parts illustrated the design possibilities and surface finishes and will inspire designers to design for additive manufacturing. Overall, the training was greatly appreciated by the Pilatus team.
Our products and services for the aerospace industry
Ready to start your project with us? Discover our solutions, ideal for your industry.
Innovate and speed up your manufacturing in collaboration with our experts. Rely on our full range of in-house technologies suitable for all industries and applications.
Work with our experts to translate your business challenges into 3D printing opportunities and identify the applications that can help you meet your needs.
Build your success on a platform of software tools that efficiently manage and control the 3D printing process, allowing you to meet the highest standards of the most demanding industries.
Get direct 24/7 access to the technologies and materials you need to bring your designs to life. Instant quotes, short lead-times, and easy checkout.
Frequently asked questions
Inspiration
Get inspired for your next project with a look at how 3D printing has made its mark in the aerospace industry.
