The United States military has been taking to rapid prototyping in many applications to test and construct new machines. Recently, the Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma has adopted a new use for 3D printing technology. It is here that, with the help of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex, that the base has begun using 3D printers to repair their airplanes.
The base has found that there are many benefits to be derived from using additive manufacturing for such purposes. Such technology allows them to repair their planes more quickly, and with greater efficiency. Even some of their classic models, like the B-52 Stratofortress that requires parts that have not been in production for a long time, can be restored to flying condition with reasonable ease.
Unfortunately, not all airplane parts can be reproduced with 3D printers. The military makes use of certain components that need to be able to stand up to great physical stress and high temperatures, and 3D printing has yet to produce anything that can match the attributes of traditionally milled titanium. All the same, they are pleased with the results that current technology has given them and look forward to growing along with 3D printing to embrace whatever new benefits the future may bring.
