EOS and EADS IW Collaborate on Eco-Assessment of DMLS

By DE Editors

EOS, a manufacturer of laser-sintering systems, in collaboration with EADS Innovation Works(IW), has started work on a study to understand the potential of the direct metal laser-sintering (DMLS) process to generate savings in the use of energy and raw materials. This could help to develop a new range of manufacturing technologies that will integrate sustainability relevant aspects into products and product manufacturing.

By capitalizing on the benefits the DMLS process offers, including the net-shape technology to generate weight-reduced structures, along with the low use of raw materials, DMLS technology has potential to contribute to sustainable development in manufacturing, according to EOS.

A previous study conducted by EADS IW showed that although the use of energy during the manufacturing phase could not compare with conventional manufacturing processes, energy consumption during the use-phase of aircraft components dropped significantly. EOS says DMLS technology unlocks structural optimization, leading to weight reduction of the components, and thus fuel and CO2 emissions reduction.

In parallel, EOS carried out a product carbon footprint (PCF) calculation of one kilogram of sintered material. The findings supported EADS IW’s research, as they showed that the greatest impact on reducing CO2 emissions and energy consumption was to be found during the use-phase of laser-sintered components. It further identified the most important drivers of energy consumption along the B2B value chain, particularly around the supply of raw materials and the use of cooling systems.  It was while comparing data that EADS IW and EOS agreed to carry out a collaborative environmental study.

Technologies applied to aerospace normally have to go through a nine-step process called TRL (technology readiness level) before they are ready to undergo qualification. For each TRL review, the evolution in maturity of a technology is measured in terms of performance, engineering, manufacturing and operational readiness as well as value and risk and sustainability/environment. The latter is a new criterion linked to EADS Group’s eco-efficiency vision in conjunction with EADS IW.

Following the original study, EADS IW and EOS will now complete a full lifecycle assessment (LCA) covering energy consumption, material use, CO2 emissions and use of hazardous material.

The joint EOS/EADS IW project will be carried out throughout the rest of the year. More detailed results will be made available towards the end of 2011.

For more information, visit EOS and EADS.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.