Safran adds three Lithoz CeraFab S65’s for aero engine part manufacture

Lithoz, based in Vienna, Austria, has announced the installation of three CeraFab S65 Additive Manufacturing machines at Safran Aircraft Engines Gennevilliers, France. This investment is expected to enable the French engine manufacturer build up the serial production of complex casting cores, meeting the high cooling demands of next-generation aircraft engine turbine blades.

Increasing high-pressure turbine inlet temperatures is key for future engine generations, so turbine components must be able to withstand these temperatures. This can be achieved by implementing more complex cooling channels during the casting process used to manufacture the turbine blades. Lithoz stated that its LCM technology has reached a level of complexity for casting cores that wasn’t achievable via traditional ceramic manufacturing processes.

Safra stated that the CeraFab S65 was chosen for its performance and short production time. The ergonomics and software functions are adapted to production and meet aeronautical traceability requirements. The company also noted the technical skills and quick response capabilities of Lithoz teams, which were said to have been major assets during the initial target planning and in reaching the success of this project.

“The installation of these three CeraFab S65 printers is a true milestone for both Lithoz and the aerospace industry,” Johannes Homa, Lithoz CEO. “As Safran Aircraft Engines moves forward to further develop their serial Additive Manufacturing process for ceramic casting cores, Lithoz remains strongly committed to providing our constant support in this important project.”

www.lithoz.com
www.safran-group.com