Collins Aerospace Chooses PrintSky for Flight Actuation Project

PrintSky has been selected by Collins Aerospace to participate in its research program for a new generation of flight actuation. The company is a joint venture between French aerospace company Sogeclair and AddUp which was created in 2019 and specializes in developing and manufacturing complex metal 3D printing components.

Supported by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) as part of the France Relance initiative, this program focuses on developing new technologies for a more sustainable aviation by 2030. PrintSky will bring to this project its expertise in design, manufacturing and qualification of additive manufacturing parts in the aerospace industry. 

An electromechanical actuation is a complex system integrating various components (sensors, engine, electronic cards and more). The structure of these actuation systems (designed and manufactured by PrintSky) is meant to ensure several functions: to resist mechanical loads, dissipate heat emitted by the components, and be tight and insensible to electromagnetic disturbances. 

Given the complexity and critical nature of this structure, it is an interesting subject for additive manufacturing. “Thanks to our technologies, we can optimize the structure of the actuation system and integrate multiphysical functions such as a heater and other peripheral parts,” says Nicolas Correge, Sogeclair new technologies manager and PrintSky manager.

PrintSky is especially proud that it relies on 3D printing technologies developed and manufactured in France by AddUp. Thanks to this disruptive process it is possible to produce complex geometrical parts that are less bulky, lighter and made of durable materials.

“PrintSky offers a multifunctional solution for new-generation equipment such as heat exchangers and electromechanical components so as to contribute to the transformation of the aeronautics industry and meet decarbonation challenges,” Correge says.