Gripen 3D-printed hatch flight test proves successful
A Gripen fighter jet flight tests a new 3D-printed hatch (Photo: Saab)
A recent flight test using a 3D-printed hatch on Saab's Gripen fighter jet could lead to more efficient ways of repairing damaged aircraft on the frontline.
Saab has announced it has flight-tested a new 3D-printed Gripen hatch in a move aimed at supporting ‘battlefield damage repair’ processes.
The flight, which took place at company facilities in Linköping, Sweden on 19 March, involved the Gripen’s original hatch being removed, scanned and replaced using a 3D-manufactured version, made from a nylon polymer known as PA2200.
Though the concept is at an early development stage, the hatch test represents a stepping stone toward Gripen operators potentially using 3D-printed spare parts from operating bases to refit damaged or faulty ones.
The thinking behind the concept is linked to
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