It’s been around since the 1990s, but 3D printing (or Additive Manufacturing – AM for short) is finally going mainstream. So just what does this technology mean for MRO operations – and how can it benefit our customers?

Everyone knows that AM can print simple parts, and this type of application is already in use throughout AFI KLM E&M – in some cases, using 3D printing for our rapid tooling needs, reducing the time required to acquire certain tools by up to 90%.

But at E&M, we are constantly looking for new and products, tools, and technologies. In our Innovation Eco System our MRO Labs join forces to to use this technology to bring even more specific benefits for the operators: using 3D printing to directly repair component parts like cabin ones, thereby reducing costs, logistical constraints and TATs during MRO operations.
Although there is a strict process to be done to ensure that 3D-printed parts can achieve the same certification status as traditionally-manufactured components, the technology holds exciting potential for MRO operations.

Examples of where we are working on:

• Additive Manufacturing. Both for tooling in our operation as well as for 3D printed parts e.g. in our cabins.
• Cold Spray technology to repair components when applicable.

Using both metal and plastic, AM can already be used to repair worn components, bringing them back to near-net shape condition. This leads to the groundbreaking possibility of repairing items that currently have to be replaced.

• Production of non-procurable OEM parts
• Improving part robustness and correcting existing defects
• Lead times can be reduced from weeks to hours
• Can vastly reduce the cost of individual parts and tooling items
• Enables components to be repaired rather than replaced