3D Printing Technology Reduces the Cost of Aircraft Interiors Through Manufacturing of Economy Class Seats

The 3D printing technology involves in building of physical objects using digital models and special metal deposition devices. The newly developed 3D printing machines have capability to fabricate complex components using varied materials such as steel, aluminum, titanium and other plastic composites. Several companies in the aircraft seating industry have already adopted this as a prototype technology and developed numerous aircraft components. 

The focus of airlines is presently on reducing the overall weight of the aircraft by minimizing the production costs. The high use of composite materials in interior structures and panels is one of the prime examples of this strategy. 3D printing technology is being used primarily to manufacture economy class seating.

SABIC (Saudi Arabia) one of the key suppliers of plastics has started developing economy class seats using 3D printing technology. The company has been developing various aircraft products which make aircrafts lighter using this technology. The products developed from this technology have adhered to the various regulatory requirements of the aircraft industry. The product was displayed at Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg.

SABIC developed this 3D printed economy class airplane seat using ULTEM 9085 resin. The company believes this resin to be perfect for 3D printing option because of its toxicity compliance, low moisture absorption and flexibility as a design material. The 3D printed seat has not yet been commercialized. SABIC believes this seating technology will be an integral part of future aircraft interiors system. 

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