In a significant move for the aerospace industry, Norsk Titanium, a leader in additive manufacturing, has announced a collaboration with Safran Landing Systems, a premier provider of landing and braking systems. This partnership aims to explore the application of Norsk Titanium’s patented Rapid Plasma Deposition® (RPD®) technology in the production of landing gear components.
The collaboration between Norsk Titanium and Safran Landing Systems is poised to revolutionize how landing gear products are manufactured. Teams from both companies have been assessing the business case for utilizing RPD® technology to produce components for Safran’s extensive range of landing systems. This initiative not only highlights the potential for advanced manufacturing techniques in critical aerospace applications but also underscores the growing trend towards additive manufacturing in the industry.
Nicholas Mayer, Vice President of Commercial at Norsk Titanium, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are very pleased with the progress towards manufacturing Safran products with our process. Penetrating new markets such as large landing gear structures is a key part of our long-term plans.” He emphasized that collaborating with an industry leader like Safran demonstrates the maturity and applicability of their RPD® technology.
Norsk Titanium’s RPD® technology represents a paradigm shift in metal manufacturing, particularly in aerospace applications. This innovative process significantly reduces the amount of raw material, energy consumption, and time required compared to traditional manufacturing methods. By leveraging RPD®, manufacturers can achieve substantial cost savings while also minimizing their environmental impact.
The technology has already proven its effectiveness; parts produced using RPD® are currently in use on commercial aircraft. The partnership with Safran is expected to further validate and expand its application within critical aerospace components, particularly landing gear systems that demand high durability and performance standards.
Norsk Titanium is at the forefront of metal 3D printing, focusing on sustainable manufacturing practices. With its current installed production capacity, the company is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for cost-efficient metal parts across various industries. Their commitment to innovation is reflected in their ability to deliver rapid prototyping and production capabilities that align with customer needs.
Safran Landing Systems is recognized as a global leader in aircraft landing and braking systems. The company’s expertise spans the entire lifecycle of its products—from design and manufacturing to maintenance and repair—serving over 34,000 aircraft globally. With a workforce of around 92,000 employees and sales reaching €23.2 billion in 2023, Safran is dedicated to enhancing air transport’s safety and sustainability.
The collaboration between Norsk Titanium and Safran Landing Systems marks a pivotal step towards integrating advanced manufacturing technologies into essential aerospace components. As both companies continue to evaluate the potential applications of RPD®, they are not only setting new standards for efficiency but also paving the way for future innovations in aerospace manufacturing. This partnership exemplifies how strategic alliances can drive technological advancements and improve operational efficiencies within critical industries.
