HexAM® Additive Manufacturing Solution
Hexcel's HexAM® additive manufacturing is a groundbreaking fusion of PEKK high-performance thermoplastic with cutting-edge additive manufacturing technology, resulting in a diverse range of fully functional, end-use parts and components. This innovative approach is reshaping the production of aircraft components by fulfilling crucial development and production contracts for 3D printed parts across various aircraft applications. By combining exceptional performance with substantial weight and cost savings, HexAM® brings immense value to customers.
Material and Process
The principal material utilized in HexAM® is a proprietary PEKK formulation, known for its robust mechanical properties, extreme temperature tolerance, high purity, gamma stability, and exceptional chemical resistance. The additive manufacturing process employs selective laser sintering, a tool-less method that generates uniform, near isotropic properties with outstanding build fidelity and limitless design possibilities. This state-of-the-art manufacturing process ensures the production of fully functional 3D-printed structural parts.
Applications and Aerospace Components
HexAM® additive manufacturing showcases the highest performance thermoplastic integrated with advanced additive manufacturing, resulting in industrial structures that excel in aviation, defense, and space applications. These structures have diverse applications, offering solutions for lightweight, durable, efficient, and cost-effective products. From low series to high series labor-intensive production parts to UAV sub-assemblies and aerostructures, HexPEKK structures enable significant weight reduction, component consolidation, and superior performance.
Engineering Services and Build Parameters
Hexcel provides top-notch engineering services to support the adoption of HexAM® additive manufacturing technology. These services encompass expanding capacity in new material and process technologies, design optimization, and sophisticated software modeling tools for efficient product development. The comprehensive mechanical testing and evaluation of products, along with the well-established Hexcel material database, facilitate rapid technology insertion. Hexcel's engineering expertise ensures the seamless integration of advanced AM structures into diverse product deliverables.
HexPEKK® 100 Engineering Properties
The HexPEKK® 100 material exhibits impressive engineering properties, including tensile strength, modulus, strain, flexural strength, melting temperature, glass transition temperature, service temperature range, resistivity, density, Poisson's ratio, and complies with flammability regulations. These superior properties make it an ideal choice for aerospace and other high-performance applications where durability, thermal stability, and mechanical strength are paramount.