Incorporating 3D metal printing with artificial intelligence in meeting aerospace demands

Abstract

3D metal printing and aerospace industry is an ideal combination where 3D metal printing offers unmatched advantages over the conventional method in terms of its rapid prototyping, rapid tooling, easy maintenance and repairs. With the provision and implementation of 3D metal printing onto aerospace sector, leading manufacturers are now enjoying great benefits as this exciting technology reduces the lead-time, increases production flexibility as well as cost-effective. However, we are now left with a big question: whether or not this 3D metal printing technology has arrived to its maximum capacity where the system operates with no flaw. Previous studies have shown that 3D metal printing is battling with its consistency, repeatability and traceability due to many independent variables that need to be controlled in a single run. Adoption of Artificial Intelligence onto the 3D metal printing has been viewed to be a promising step and therefore, serves as a cornerstone towards a better development of 3D metal printing technology.