The technology is new, but it seems to me like it’s already changed everything.
Before this technology, complex machine parts have been built by assembling smaller parts like nuts, bolts, plates, screws, bushings, cast housings, etc., into larger assemblies. The structural characteristics and requirements of the smaller parts determine many characteristics of the larger machines for which they become components.
citim’s additive layer manufacturing of metal parts eliminates all of that, at least for non-moving parts. Starting from an electronic map – CAD – digital matrix of the complex machine, they use a laser to weld powder particles of material such as stainless steel, aluminum, bronze, and titanium, by horizontal layers, one layer at a time, to build up a finished product.
This should completely change engine fabrication methods. Complex ducting and flow paths can weave throughout the block without regard to traditional machining methods using cutting tools to mill out and drill the various chambers in a block. Pressure chambers can be built with just enough wall depth necessary to contain a function, and no more. Engine cooling and lubrication flows can be completely re-conceived.
Engines should become much lighter with substantially higher power to weight ratios once the block is reduced to purely functional housings.
I hope I live long enough to see these machines of the future.
B_Imperial