Sample Parts
The aim of RAPOLAC is to validate the SMD process for use within aerospace. As part of this goal, it is necessary to benchmark the process against traditional manufacturing processes for a standard features aerospace component containing SMD features such as walls, bosses and flanges.
The pieces below are made from a Grade 5 Titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V), commonly used in aerospace. The welding parameters are those produced during RAPOLAC. They have been optimised for material properties at different thicknesses. Two parts were produced - the one on the left is a thick component which has been heat-treated and part-machined; the component on the right was deposited with a thinner wall and has had no futher processing.
The way in which the manufacture of these parts compares with traditional manufacturing methods in terms of cost and environmental impact has been evaluated as part of the project. For large parts, there is a significant reduction in raw material and energy use.
