Premium AEROTEC delivers first 3D-printed serial components

Customer receives the first components produced by Premium AEROTEC using additive manufacturing methods. Dirk Hoke, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space (on the right), took possession of the first components manufactured using 3D-printing processes for the A400M's aerial refuelling system.

Thomas Ehm, Chairman of the Board of Management at Premium AEROTEC, also handed over the corresponding declaration of conformity, the EASA Form 1. This declaration certifies that the 3D-printed components comply with the approved design details and that they are airworthy.

“This delivery success is the result of teamwork,” said Thomas Ehm. “Our development engineers have – in cooperation with their colleagues at Airbus Defence and Space – created the foundation for the production of individual components using the 3D-printing process in Varel. These parts were then used in conjunction with other conventionally manufactured items to complete the assemblies in Augsburg.”

The use of additive production methods saves time and cuts costs. Components manufactured with 3D-printing eliminate the need for the previously required casting and welding work. In addition to the assemblies that were handed over containing four 3D-printed double-walled pipe elbows, the entire shipment will include another 92 conventionally manufactured pipe components. They are to be employed in the A400M's aerial refuelling system.

Premium AEROTEC generated revenues of 2 billion euros in 2015. The company’s core
business lies in the development and production of metal and carbon fibre composite aircraft structures. The company has manufacturing sites in Augsburg, Bremen, Nordenham and Varel in Germany, as well as in Braşov in Romania.