GKN Aerospace and the US Air Force Research Laboratory have launched the TITAN-AM programme, an $8.4m partnership focused on the industrialisation of laser metal deposition with wi...
Originally reported by manufacturingdigital.com
GKN Aerospace and the US Air Force Research Laboratory have launched the TITAN-AM programme, an $8.4m partnership focused on the industrialisation of laser metal deposition with wire (LMD-W) for large-scale titanium aerostructures. Based at GKN Aerospace's Global Technology Centre in Fort Worth, Texas, the collaboration aims to develop robust material datasets, advanced simulation capabilities, and non-destructive inspection (NDI) techniques specifically for additive manufacturing. David Bond, CTO Airframes at GKN Aerospace, is leading the initiative to demonstrate the technology on operational structural components for the US defence and aerospace sector.
This partnership addresses the critical barrier of certification and structural reliability for large-format metal additive manufacturing. While GKN already produces components like fan case mount rings for the Pratt & Whitney GTF engine family, the move toward LMD-W for primary structural components requires a higher level of process control and material consistency than current serial production. By integrating AFRL research with GKN's existing manufacturing footprint, the programme targets the gap between prototype additive parts and flight-certified structural hardware. This effort aligns with broader industry trends to reduce reliance on traditional subtractive machining and forging for complex titanium geometries.
The success of TITAN-AM depends on the ability to generate statistically significant material datasets that satisfy aerospace regulatory requirements. For the broader market, this programme provides a roadmap for qualifying DED-based processes for primary load-bearing applications. Stakeholders should focus on the specific NDI protocols and simulation outcomes produced, as these will define the feasibility of scaling LMD-W beyond secondary structures into critical airframe components. 🚀
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