QuesTek Innovations LLC has partnered with the German Aerospace Center to 3D print aerospace components using its new aluminum alloy.
According to the company, the alloy is capable of high-strength performance at elevated temperatures (200-300*C) in the as-built condition, without the need for subsequent heat treatment. It can reportedly be used to make parts such as heat exchangers or other components requiring internal cooling channels. It will also be possible to reduce weight in parts that currently must be made from titanium, Questek says.
This alloy is one of a series of QuesTek is developing under US Navy-funded Small Business Innovation Research awards, the company said. Other aluminum alloys under development include a high strength at-room-temperature variant, as well as high strength and highly corrosion-resistant variant. QuesTek is also collaborating on alloys for engine applications with Pankl Racing, an Austrian-based manufacturer.
‘Based on our internal test results, we see broad application of this material in manufacturing components for aerospace, satellite, automotive and high-performance racing,’ said Greg Olson, QuesTek chief science officer.
This story uses material from QuesTek, with editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.
