GE Additive materials unit signs agreement with Airbus

AP&C has struck a deal to provide Airbus with titanium for 3D-printing metal parts. The multiyear agreement to supply the aircraft manufacturer with Ti-6AI-4V powders deepens the relationship between Airbus and AP&C, a GE Additive company. The companies have worked together for several years.

The adoption of metal additive technology in aerospace continues to grow, said AP&C’s CEO, Alain Dupont. He added that keeping pace with the growth in a highly regulated industry like aerospace requires a “robust” supply chain and partners that add value. Scaling metal additive manufacturing can only be achieved by sharing knowledge, such as best practices, that lower risk and increase stability, said Dupont. “One way we have supported Airbus in recent years, for example, has been to help its in-house additive manufacturing team establish its own methods and processes to qualify Ti-6AI-4V powders.”

AP&C, which produces plasma-atomized titanium, aluminum, and nickel powders, continues to invest in its atomization technology. Reportedly, it has grown its capacity to produce titanium powders to more than 1,000 tons annually.