Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC) has chosen GKN Aerospace to furnish cutting-edge technology for the comprehensive static test fire of NGC’s latest SMART Demo. GKN Aerospace’s assistance encompasses the utilization of additive manufacturing (AM) technology, sourced from its recently established Global Technology Centre in Fort Worth, Texas.
The large-scale laser metal deposition with wire (LMD-w) process, employed in this collaboration, is designed to enhance product weight optimization, facilitate the efficient utilization of high-cost alloys, and substantially diminish lead times.
GKN Aerospace collaborates with Northrop Grumman on SMART Demo rocket test motor
Northrop Grumman has enlisted the expertise of GKN Aerospace in the development of components for a groundbreaking solid rocket motor demonstrator. The inaugural Solid Motor Annual Rocket Technology Demonstrator (SMART Demo) successfully tested a newly devised motor in under a year, showcasing innovative technologies, including alternative manufacturing materials and processes. Supported by GKN Aerospace’s revolutionary additive manufacturing (AM) capability, the project demonstrated technologies with the potential to slash production lead times by up to 75 percent.
Shawn Black, President of GKN Aerospace’s Defense Business, said, « We are delighted to collaborate with Northrop Grumman on SMART Demo. Programmes like this underscore the significant benefits additive manufacturing can bring, such as reducing production costs and lead times for mission-critical products that support our Armed Forces and the commercial aviation industry. We are committed to innovation and to rapidly advance this technology to support our customers and to provide greater resilience across the aerospace and defence industrial base. »
GKN Aerospace boasts nearly two decades of pioneering experience in additive manufacturing, with prominent research and technology centers in Sweden, the UK, and the USA. In a recent development, the company announced a joint investment of £50 million with the Swedish Energy Agency in cutting-edge additive technology in Trollhättan, Sweden.
Having served as a supplier to Northrop Grumman for an extended period, GKN Aerospace underscored its leadership in additive manufacturing in 2022. In collaboration with NGC, the company showcased its prowess by unveiling an 8-foot titanium demonstrator, marking it as the largest additive manufacturing component it had ever manufactured.