Turbomeca Introduces 3-D Printing

Turbomeca has started production of parts using an additive manufacturing (3-D printing) process. Arrano test and production engines will feature fuel-injector nozzles made using “selective laser melting” techniques with a nickel-based super alloy. The Arrano, which is to power the still-under-wraps Airbus Helicopters X4, will thus feature a single-piece nozzle, while a conventional injector nozzle is made from dozens of different pieces. This technology will also be used to manufacture Ardiden 3 combustor swirlers.