US-based lightweight metals distributor, Alcoa, has been selected by aerospace giant, Airbus, to help integrate 3D printing parts into their products. Airbus will leverage Alcoas comprehensive capabilities from advanced alloy development to finished part production.
Last year, Alcoa acquired RTI International Metalsnow known as Alcoa Titanium & Engineered Products (ATEP). This acquisition grew Alcoas additive manufacturing capabilities to include 3D printed titanium and specialty metals parts. The new Airbus agreement will leverage these capabilities as well as ATEPs titanium ingot melting and billetizing, machining, finishing and inspection technologies.
Alcoa will employ advanced CT scan and Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) capabilities at its advanced aerospace facility in Whitehall, Michigan. HIP is a technology that strengthens the metallic structures of traditional and additive manufactured parts made of titanium and nickel-based superalloys.