Airframe Designs completes a government-backed R&D project to develop flame-resistant, 3D-printed polymer aircraft parts, positioning itself as a leader in aerospace additive manufacturing.
Airframe Designs has achieved a milestone in a government-funded research and development project, advancing ultra-polymer additive manufacturing for aircraft cabin interiors. The 18-month initiative, co-funded by Innovate UK under the National Aerospace Technology Exploitation Programme (NATEP), involved collaboration with flammability test house MIX14 and structural test house AMS.
The project focused on using soluble supports with a novel ultra-polymer material, AM200, produced by Victrex. This innovation enables high-performance 3D printing of airworthy parts, combining flame resistance with structural integrity.
Garry Sellick, Additive Manufacturing Manager at Airframe Designs, highlighted the project’s role in solidifying the company’s ambition to become the top polymer additive manufacturing SME in aerospace and defense. “This demonstrates our commitment to solving industry challenges through advanced engineering and partnerships,” he said.
NATEP, a £20 million program, has supported over 80 aerospace technologies across the UK supply chain. Airframe Designs is now recruiting skilled professionals to further its leadership in the field.
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The breakthrough highlights the ability of additive manufacturing to revolutionise aerospace production whilst adhering to high safety standards.
