EBM is a process in which metal powder is melted by a powerful electron beam to create metal components on layer at a time. Unlike most additive manufacturing processes, EBM is able to produce extremely precise, complex, small to medium-sized components that require very little finishing work.
GKN Aerospace and Arcam engineers will work with Arcam Q20 machines to create the next generation of EBM equipment.
GKN Aerospace has ordered two Arcam Q20 EBM machines to be installed at GKN Aerospace’s Bristol, UK additive manufacturing (AM) center. The agreement also stipulates that GKN Aerospace and ARCAM engineers will work together to devleop the next generation of EBM equipment to make complex titanium structures capable of producing objects at high volumes.
Russ Dunn, senior vice president engineering & technology, GKN Aerospace commented on the agreement, saying, "We have been working with Arcam for some time exploring what we believe to be one of the most promising of the additive processes. Our aim has been to fully understand how EBM can be applied to our future aero structures and aero engines portfolio. Through this new strategic partnership with Arcam our combined additive manufacturing teams will now take the next steps towards fully industrialising this AM technology. We believe the array of processes that fall under the ‘additive’ umbrella will revolutionise manufacturing across every industrial sector – particularly in aerospace where cost, weight and performance are critical."
The agreement underscores a major AM research and development initiative underway at GKM. Currently, the company has established four global AM development centers in North America and Europe focusing on progressing specific additive processes and technologies.