3D 프린팅, 이제 하늘을 날다
3D 프린팅 기술이 항공기 엔진까지 진출했다. GE항공의 차세대 LEAP 엔진에 포함된 연료 노즐이 바로 3D 프린팅 기술로 제작된 것이다. 3D 프린팅 기술의 약점으로 꼽히는 ‘소재의 제약’을 극복하여, 항공기 엔진에까지 적용할 수 있는 새로운 소재를 개발한 GE의 신기술을 만나보자.
B737 MAX
Spooky season is here, but don't let your annual mammogram scare you. Nearly 30% of women in the U.S. admit to skipping breast screenings out of fear. That's why @gehealthcare engineers decided to better the experience with a mammography system designed by women, for women. Melding comforting design with cutting edge technology, the Senographe Pristina aims to humanize the process for patients, technicians, and radiologists. #BCAM #Mammography #breastcancerawareness
Slice into an additively-made part from @geadditive and you’ll see geometries once thought impossible with traditional manufacturing methods. Why the hype? Engineers can now find greater strength and efficiency through design. #engineering #additive #3Dprinting #manufacturing
Wind, meet water. In Germany’s Swabian-Franconian Forest, you’ll find the world’s tallest (584 ft) and first-ever wind turbines integrated with pumped storage hydroelectric power. So how does it work? At the base of each wind turbine sits a reservoir. Water flowing downhill from the reservoirs will power the hydro plant when electricity is needed. When there’s an energy surplus, the hydro power will push the water back up the hill to the reservoirs, where it will act as a giant battery for the wind turbines. So no matter if the wind is blowing or not, electricity will always be flowing
This Ultra Performance Heat Exchanger is a perfect example of how small parts can make a HUGE difference. Still in development, the additively manufactured compact heat exchanger is printed with a high-temperature capable, crack-resistant nickel superalloy that will be able to withstand temps that exceed 1,650°F at pressures >3,600 psi. Good thing, too, because it’s headed straight for the inside of a gas turbine, where it’s projected to deliver a 4% improvement in thermal efficiency for supercritical C02 power cycles while improving power output and reducing emissions. Cleaner, more efficient power generation here we come.
Colder weather is on the way. If you’re in Winnipeg, Canada, that means ice testing is too. There, @geaviation test engines are pummeled with sub-zero winds and ice. The harsh conditions on the ground make sure engines are ready to face the elements in the air. #AVgeek #jetengine #engineering
