Micro Jet Engine Manufactured by using 3D Printing Technique: Transforming the Future of Aerospace Innovation
LU ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
By Mufaddal Shakir
7/14/20251 min read
Micro Jet Engine Manufactured by using 3D Printing Technique: Transforming the Future of Aerospace Innovation
Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) has manufactured a fully 3D-printed lightweight micro jet engine, which has completed its first maiden flight test in China with a thrust level of 353 pounds, AECC announced on its official WeChat account on Wednesday.
AECC is a Chinese state-owned aerospace manufacturing company, established in 2016, that operates across both civil and military aviation sectors, and its operations extend globally.
Building of 3D-printed engine
The micro jet engine was developed using a combination of additive manufacturing and multidisciplinary topology optimization, a computational method that determines the most efficient distribution of material within a part’s geometry. This process makes it possible to produce integrated parts with intricate structures that are not possible with traditional forging or casting techniques. The AECC claims that this method enabled engineers to lighten the structure without sacrificing structural integrity.
3D printed lightweight micro jet engine (Source: AECC)
Testing of flight performance
The flight test was conducted at a maximum altitude of 4,000 feet, which is much lower than the flight altitude of commercial planes but a normal altitude for smaller planes. Prior to the test flight, the engine underwent crucial ground testing, such as performance standards and engine life, to guarantee the first try at the flight test was successful. The test demonstrated the engine's stability and reliability under real flight conditions. The success of the flight test shows an important leap in China's application of incorporating 3D printing in the aviation sector.
AECC has not confirmed any details regarding the type of material used and what percentage of the engine was 3D printed. It may be that not the entire engine, but only some parts were 3D printed. It is also unknown which type of 3D printer was used in the process. According to AECC, this successful maiden flight will lay a stronger foundation for the development of upcoming advanced aviation engines.