Horizon Aircraft, based in Canada, is at the forefront of hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) technology. The company faced significant challenges in developing components that meet stringent performance requirements, including a thrust of 4 MPa and precise dimensional tolerances of 0.6 mm. Traditional manufacturing methods proved inadequate for rapid design iterations and the production of unique parts necessary for their innovative Cavorite X7 prototype.
Why Choose INTAMSYS
To overcome these obstacles, Horizon Aircraft chose INTAMSYS and the FUNMAT PRO 410 3D printer. This decision was driven by several factors:
Cost-Effectiveness: The FUNMAT PRO 410 offers a competitive cost compared to outsourced production.
Intellectual Property Security: In-house production mitigates the risk of IP leaks.
Material Versatility: The open materials system allows for printing 80% of the aircraft's functional components using HTN-CF.
Large Build Size: Capable of producing parts with diameters up to 12 inches, thanks to its temperature-controlled chamber.
The PEEK-CF aerospace electric duct, printed on the FUNMAT PRO 610HT, showcases the ability to produce complex, high-performance components tailored for demanding applications.
Key Benefits
The integration of 3D-printed PEEK-CF lift fans and housings provided Horizon Aircraft with significant advantages:
Rapid Design Iteration: Facilitated quick functional testing and production of small-batch terminal components.
Superior Material Properties: PEEK-CF offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and dimensional stability, meeting aerospace demands.
Compliance: Ensures adherence to thrust requirements of 4 MPa and assembly tolerances within 0.6 mm.
The properties of PEEK-CF — high-temperature resistance, flame retardance, and corrosion resistance—make it an ideal choice for aerospace structures. With successful flight tests of their 50% scale prototype, Horizon Aircraft is positioned to revolutionize air transportation across sectors such as medical services, commercial aviation, municipal applications, and disaster response.
As Horizon Aircraft continues to innovate, they remain committed to a sustainable future, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to competitors reliant on heavy lithium batteries. The team is actively exploring emerging technologies to enhance their hybrid electric aircraft systems further.
Discover the Transformative Power of PEEK in 3D Printing.
This high-performance thermoplastic polymer excels in chemical stability, wear resistance, and mechanical strength, making it ideal for aerospace, automotive, and medical applications. Dive into the whitepaper to explore how PEEK's unique properties and advanced 3D printing technologies are revolutionizing the manufacturing landscape.
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FUNMAT PRO 410
The FUNMAT PRO 410 is an industrial-grade FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) 3D printer system known for its high-performance capabilities. With a generous build volume and exceptional print quality, it is an ideal choice for professional and industrial users seeking to 3D print high-performance parts using engineering-grade materials.
