Optimising engine design with metal additive manufacturing

Renishaw, has worked with engine manufacturer Cobra Aero, based in Michigan, USA, to optimise its design processes for aircraft and motorcycle engines. After working to develop new manufacturing processes, Cobra invested in Renishaw’s AM 400 system to increase its additive manufacturing (AM) capabilities.

Using AM technology allowed Cobra Aero to design a lattice structure to improve the design of a cylinder for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) by increasing airflow, it also allowed them to produce one solid, lightweight part.

“We decided to redesign the cylinder because of its importance in an engine,” explained Sean Hilbert, president of Cobra Aero. “Design changes to this part of the engine must happen rapidly and it is also a high value part. Improving the performance of the cylinder will also improve the overall performance of the engine.”