The 3D printers are used for printing tools and testing of all kinds of machines, nevertheless BAE Systems has made 3D parts for military uses.
The company’s engineers have created and flown a 3D printed camera bracket part for the first time aboard a Tornado fighter jet, which was launched from BAE’s airfield at Warton, Lancashire.
The parts are made from a plastic material and include protective covers for the fighter’s cockpit radios, support struts on the air intake door and protective guards for Power Take-off shafts.
3D printing is the future because it reduces costs, the amount of which is expected to be cut for over 1.2 million from now to 2017, according to BAE Systems. For example, some of the parts cost less than £100 per piece to manufacture and have saved so far more than £300,000.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, January 23, 2014; Image: BAE Systems