Croom Medical and the University of Limerick have formalized a research partnership focused on advancing metal additive manufacturing for aeronautical engineering applications. Led by Dr. Kyriakos Kourousis, the Metal Plasticity and Additive Manufacturing Group at UL will utilize its GE Concept Laser Mlab Cusing R LPBF system to investigate the mechanical behavior of Ti-6Al-4V and steel components. The collaboration aims to establish rigorous certification standards by modeling how metal plasticity, microstructure, and residual stresses influence fatigue life in 3D-printed parts. This research addresses the critical industry requirement for predictable performance in safety-critical aerospace components.

The integration of academic research with industrial application is essential for the transition of metal AM from prototyping to flight-ready hardware. By focusing on mechanical anisotropy and the effects of powder reuse cycles, this partnership targets the specific technical barriers that currently limit the adoption of LPBF in highly regulated sectors. Croom Medical, which maintains a strong footprint in high-precision manufacturing, is positioning itself to leverage these findings to improve the reliability and consistency of its metal AM production processes. This work aligns with broader efforts to standardize post-processing techniques like hot isostatic pressing to homogenize microstructure and seal internal porosity.

This partnership provides a clear pathway for Croom Medical to refine its process parameters and build strategies for complex aerospace geometries. By quantifying the relationship between print settings and material fatigue, the company can reduce the reliance on costly trial-and-error testing during the certification phase. Success will depend on the ability to translate these laboratory-scale findings into repeatable, high-volume production workflows that meet stringent aeronautical airworthiness requirements.