Aerospace

Stratasys to give BAE Systems private access to upcoming 3D printing technologies and materials

Leading 3D printer OEM Stratasys and global defense, security and aerospace company BAE Systems have today confirmed a commitment to increase their collaboration.

A Stratasys customer since 2006, BAE Systems currently employs 3D printing to the development of new solutions in its Land, Maritime and Air Sectors. By deepening its partnership with Stratasys, BAE Systems will be given “increased access” to developing 3D printing technologies and materials from the PolyJet and FDM giant.

“We’re delighted to bolster our relationship with such an innovative partner as Stratasys,” comments Dave Holmes, Manufacturing Director at BAE Systems Air.

“Already integrated across our production operations, Stratasys’ technology will continue to be vital in addressing and solving our current and future manufacturing challenges.”

From L - R: Ian Barton, Head of Strategy & Investment Planning, BAE Systems; Andrew Schofield, Head of Manufacturing & Materials Engineering, BAE Systems; Yann Rageul, Head of Strategic Accounts for EMEA at Stratasys; and Simon Whitaker, Technology Operations Manager at BAE Systemsin front of the Stratasys F900 3D printer. Photo via Stratasys
From L – R: Ian Barton, Head of Strategy & Investment Planning, BAE Systems; Andrew Schofield, Head of Manufacturing & Materials Engineering, BAE Systems; Yann Rageul, Head of Strategic Accounts for EMEA at Stratasys; and Simon Whitaker, Technology Operations Manager at BAE Systemsin front of the Stratasys F900 3D printer. Photo via Stratasys

Additive manufacturing at BAE Systems 

BAE Systems in an early adopter of 3D printing, and draws on a number of different technologies with different academic and industrial partners. Though many specific 3D printing applications at the company are classified, a lot of effort has been put into part development for its aerospace business. In 2014, the company attained its first certification for flight-ready 3D printed polymer parts. This year, its work with WAAM3D and Cranfield University earned the company the Automotive or Aerospace Application of the Year Award. Ever seeking innovative means of engineering, 3D printing has also helped BAE Systems get its MAGMA UAV into the air.

Stratasys 3D printers integrated into operations at BAE Systems include a fleet of F900 Production machines, part of the company’s patented FDM range offering a build size of 914.4 x 609.6 x 914.4 mm, with option to operate two separate beds.

The F900 3D printer from Stratasys. Photo via Stratasys.
The F900 3D printer from Stratasys. Photo via Stratasys.

Exclusive insight to inform R&D

Working more closely with BAE Systems, Stratasys is hoping to gain insight into the future needs of aerospace industry, which will help to steer its R&D programs. Yann Rageul, Head of Strategic Accounts for EMEA at Stratasys, has said the partnership is “paramount to ensuring we continue to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to developing and delivering additive manufacturing solutions,” especially for the aerospace sector.

Concluding comments on the announcement, Rageul added, “We look forward to strengthening our ties and working even more closely with BAE Systems to help realize their short and long-term manufacturing objectives.”

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Featured image shows from L – R: Ian Barton, Head of Strategy & Investment Planning, BAE Systems; Andrew Schofield, Head of Manufacturing & Materials Engineering, BAE Systems; Yann Rageul, Head of Strategic Accounts for EMEA at Stratasys; and Simon Whitaker, Technology Operations Manager at BAE Systemsin front of the Stratasys F900 3D printer. Photo via Stratasys