The future of additive manufacturing in aerospace | Helen Lockett | TEDxOpenUniversity

In the last decade we have seen many news headlines about 3D printing - the 3D printed gun, 3D printed car and the prediction of a 3D printer in every home. The additive manufacturing market this year is predicted $3 billion dollars, but where are all the 3D printed parts?
Additive manufacturing is being used in niche areas, but it has yet to take hold in other industries. This talk explores why there is currently a huge amount of research into using additive manufacturing in aerospace. What are the challenges and opportunities for additive manufacturing in aerospace and how will they impact our daily lives? Engineering academic at The Open University. Chartered Engineer and Member of the Royal Aeronautical Society and ASTM International, contributing to the development of new standards for additive manufacturing. Encourages young people to consider engineering careers. Passion began when constructing an electric bass guitar for a school technology project. STEM Ambassador. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@malonebrown8]

This Summed up Additive Manufacturing nicely.

[@flufwix]

I’m curious as to whether the additive process always produces the same strength and quality of material as traditional smelting does.

[@ericweis9771]

Thank you for sharing that. I had not considered the potential beneficial environmental impacts of additive Manufacturing. Truly revolutionary technology.

[@jimmyc451]

couldn't that same part be printed using some new fiber type material that would have the same strength as alum but be even lighter?

[@Lukeclout]

Gunny- We need this to beat China.