Brookhouse invests in latest 3D printing capability

Brookhouse Aerospace has announced its first significant investment in 3D printing with the purchase of a Fortus 450mc from Stratasys, one of the leaders in 3D printing and additive solutions, materials and services.

The Fortus 450mc is a mid-range machine that is capable of printing a variety of complex components from a wide range of materials that meet the requirements of a number of applications. The range of materials includes Ultem 9085 that is approved for use within the aerospace and defence industry, and ideal for use with carbon fibre composites. The new machine has been provided by Stratasys Derby-based Platinum Partner, SYS-UK

The investment allows Brookhouse Aerospace to support the requirements from its aerospace and defence customers for low volume R&D projects. Often, the challenge is to take a concept or idea to prototype phase in short lead-times and with often-fast changing designs. The 3D printing capability allows for a quick solution for the manufacture of low volume tooling and fixtures that would traditionally take weeks to design and manufacture. This allows a much quicker route for the manufacture of composite prototypes.

Brookhouse Aerospace CEO, Christopher Morris said: “We are very pleased to be able to offer this new capability. Our new Stratasys 3D printing machine provides the versatility we need when working with customers on new projects. We now have the ability to take a customer’s idea and place a real part in their hands in days rather than weeks. This capability is a real step forward in supporting our customers’ needs and again demonstrates Brookhouse Aerospace commitment to supporting their current and future requirements.”

Ian Pilkington, Brookhouse Aerospace’s engineering manager, added: “We see this system as a means of providing solutions to our manufacturing challenges and requirements both internally and for our customers. The machine allows us to provide fixtures, intensifiers, press brake tooling, trim tools and even high temperature mould tools. Being able to turn around our customer’s requirements far quicker than going out to the supply chain and also provide a more cost effective solution is a massive tool in our arsenal. The possibilities for its use are endless.”

www.brookhouse-aerospace.com