Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Mohawk College's Additive Manufacturing Resource Centre (AMRC) will collaborate with Ajax-based Messier-Dowty, Inc. on an applied research study to assess the feasibility of using additive manufacturing (3D printing on an industry scale) to produce class 3 aerospace brackets for use within their landing gear systems. Although the use of additive manufacturing for final production in aerospace is increasing, additive manufacturing does not currently offer standardized processes appropriate for structural components within landing gear systems. While it is possible to use additive manufacturing in non-load bearing components, such as brackets, the manufacturing of existing designs using additive manufacturing are typically economically unfeasible unless the parts are optimized for additive manufacturing. By investing now in learning more about this technology, the foundation is laid to retain and gain manufacturing jobs for Messier-Dowty in Canada. Additive manufacturing also has the potential to have a positive environmental impact by substantially reducing wasted materials in landing gear manufacturing, where a high percentage of material is discarded during the machining process. With the manufacturing industry forecasting a 300% growth in the use of additive manufacturing, this study will provide Messier-Dowty with the information needed to introduce additive manufacturing technology into their production, laying the foundation for improved engineering and design techniques in the competitive aerospace market.