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.
