The National Institute for Aviation Research relies on 3D printing technology from Velo3D

3D printing specialist Velo3D announced that the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) has purchased a Sapphire 1MZ printer to develop performance-based qualification methods for 3D printed metal parts for airframe applications.

NIAR, founded in 1985 at Wichita State University, is recognised as one of the leading research institutions in the aerospace field. With an annual budget of 350 million US dollars and over 1,200 employees, the organisation conducts research at several locations in Kansas and Alabama to promote innovations in aerospace and defence. NIAR works closely with government agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and NASA to develop new materials and manufacturing techniques.

“Our team is focused on helping the U.S. identify materials, designs, and techniques that can support the country’s aerospace, defense, and manufacturing industries and we’re glad to work with America’s own metal additive manufacturing provider,” said Lauren Tubesing, Business Development Lead, Advanced Manufacturing at National Institute for Aviation Research. “Our organization is well-known for its work in aeronautical research and by leveraging Velo3D’s solution to better understand the nuisances within the additive manufacturing process, we can help build confidence in 3D-printed parts, thereby accelerating adoption of this advanced manufacturing technology.”

With its 315 mm diameter and 1000 mm build height, the Sapphire 1MZ offers a large build platform that is ideal for the production of aircraft parts. Velo3D is supporting the project with its Assure Quality Assurance software, which captures data on each printed layer and optimises quality assurance. This technology makes it possible to ensure consistent and high-quality results, which is particularly important when qualifying for aerospace applications.

“Qualifying 3D-printed parts for production use is a massive challenge and something that has greatly impeded broad adoption of additive manufacturing for commercial aviation applications and it’s great to see a brilliant organization like NIAR work to solve this,” said Brad Kreger, Velo3D CEO. “The work NIAR will conduct will not only be invaluable to their organization, but the entire industry. We’re proud to be a part of this effort.”