Cutting-Edge Aerospace Machining: Handling Complex Shapes and Materials
The aerospace manufacturing sector has some of the most stringent regulations, and for good reason. Safety is vital in this industry, and so most aerospace components have to meet the tightest tolerances and highest quality standards in order to perform optimally and not fail during flight. Much of what is possible today in aerospace machining is due to advancements in technology as well as the materials that are available.
Increased dimensional complexity and accuracy
Aerospace manufacturing often has to meet very close tolerances for incredibly intricate shapes. The development of multi-axis CNC machining has allowed for more complexity in the parts themselves. Multi-axis machining equipment can move a cutting tool on multiple axes (compared to just one or two), allowing the machine to create much more complex geometries. Tube fittings, elbows, manifolds, brackets, and bobbins for engines are all possible due to advancements in aerospace machining technology. Brake and landing gear components, which are critical applications, also benefit from multi-axis machining.
Another type of technology that has expanded the possibilities of aerospace machining is the swiss lathe. Swiss screw machining was originally developed to create tiny parts for watches, and has since been applied successfully across many industries, including Aerospace. Swiss machining allows for the creation of very small, intricate components with tiny details and tight tolerances.
Improved weight and strength
The constant search in the Aerospace industry is for materials that are strong, withstand the harsh conditions that are common in these applications. Aluminum alloys and titanium are two of the most popular types of metals, as they are both strong and lightweight and fairly easy to work with. Aluminum is often more popular, being more cost efficient and highly machinable, but titanium has more applications for functional aircraft components and external parts. Titanium is highly corrosion and temperature resistant, and much stronger than aluminum, while still being fairly lightweight.
New types of plastics have been developed too that have proven excellent for the aerospace sector as well. High performance thermoplastics are excellent for interior aircraft components, being both lightweight and strong, and also fire retardant.
Looking for a supplier of aerospace machining services?
Kessington Aerospace, LLC. has several decades of experience supplying precision machined components for some of the most demanding applications in the world, fully equipped with everything our customers need, including multi-axis capabilities. Check out our website to learn more.