This is the sort of question we’ve been hearing in recent days, so we thought we would share a video that was created by the RAF as a project update, giving you an insight into the how’s, why’s and who’s who of the project.

This is the sort of project that comes around once in a thousand years, being able to to work on a project that is aligned with our own visions of using advanced manufacturing technologies whilst trying to help the UK become a more environmentally sustainable outfit in all areas. The first part of the project was to show that we could help prove that we could use parts from an old Tornado aircraft and create a new part for the next generation of aircraft, the Tempest.

If you have any further specific questions or queries, please do get in touch and ask us whatever you like: Contact.

Additive Manufacturing Solutions Ltd. (AMS) is proud to announce its collaboration with the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) and Rolls-Royce in a groundbreaking initiative to recycle components from retired Tornado aircraft into new parts for the next-generation Tempest fighter jets. This innovative project marks a first for the UK, showcasing the potential of advanced recycling and additive manufacturing techniques in defence applications.

The process involves dismantling surplus Tornado aircraft to extract high-quality metals such as titanium. These materials are then atomised into powders, which serve as feedstock for 3D printing new components. AMS successfully utilised this method to produce a 3D-printed nose cone and fan blades for Rolls-Royce’s Orpheus engine, a key element of the MOD’s Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program delivering Tempest. The newly manufactured nose cone was fitted onto an Orpheus test engine and passed rigorous suitability and safety checks, demonstrating the viability of this recycling approach for future military aircraft.

AMS is honoured to contribute its expertise in additive manufacturing to this collaborative effort, reinforcing its commitment to advancing sustainable and efficient solutions within the aerospace and defence sectors. Rob Higham stated: “This project turned our proposed solutions into a reality, and we have been very humbled and grateful to the MOD and Rolls Royce, for allowing us to showcase our capability to deliver game-changing circular economy processes and parts in Defence.”

The MOD press release can be found here: MOD News, the Rolls-Royce can be found here: Rolls Royce News and the RAF press release can be found RAF News.

We have also been awarded the Chief of Defence Logistics and Support (CDLS) Commendation for our commitment and dedication to the delivery and improvement of support to the front line, alongside the other members of this successful project. For the full list, please see this link to the MOD news post.

For more information about this project or AMS’s role in advancing additive manufacturing technologies, please contact us here: Contact.

Additive Manufacturing Solutions Ltd. is proud to announce that we have achieved ISO 9001 certification, the globally recognised standard for quality management systems (QMS). This certification underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality products and services to our customers while continually improving our processes.

ISO 9001 sets the criteria for QMS’, internationally. Achieving this certification demonstrates that AMS operates efficiently, meets regulatory requirements, and consistently provides products and services that meet customer expectations.

“Receiving ISO 9001 certification is yet another significant milestone for our company,” said Davey Higham, AM Technician at Additive Manufacturing Solutions Ltd. “It reflects our dedication to top quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. This achievement not only validates our operational excellence but also strengthens our position as a trusted partner in the AM industry.”

The certification process involved a comprehensive review of our quality management system, internal procedures, and overall business operations to ensure compliance with ISO standards. Our team, more specifically Julie and Rob, our Operations Lead and CEO, have worked diligently to implement and maintain best practices that enhance efficiency and drive continuous improvement.

This achievement further reinforces our ability to deliver precision-engineered additive manufacturing solutions that meet the highest industry standards. As we continue to grow and innovate, our commitment to quality remains unwavering.

A special thank you to the team at Auva, who carried out the certification checks on site for us.

For more information about our ISO 9001 certification and how it benefits our customers, please contact us at our Contact page.