The aerospace industry has embraced the concept of digitalization as a crucial aspect, owing to its profound influence. Cutting-edge digitalization methods enable the swift accumulation and thorough examination of vast amounts of data. This procedure facilitates the timely identification of maintenance requirements, empowering proactive measures for repairs and replacements prior to any potential failures.
Fremont, CA: Given the current uncertain economic situation in the aerospace and aviation sectors, engineers who are open to embracing new technologies, continuously improving their professional skills, and demonstrating adaptability are more likely to thrive in an industry that is still grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic. Now, let's explore some crucial engineering advancements and emerging trends that are expected to contribute to the recovery of the aerospace and aviation sectors, helping them overcome the adverse effects of COVID-19.
3D Printing
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In 2018, the aerospace sector's 3D printing and additive manufacturing segment was valued at approximately $1 billion, with forecasts suggesting it will reach over $6 billion by 2026. Initially, this technology was primarily employed for crafting non-critical plastic components. However, the past few years have witnessed a notable shift towards producing indispensable parts for commercial and military use, including engine components, wingtip fences, bearing housings, and protective jackets for combustion chambers, thanks to significant advancements in metal 3D printing. Despite a temporary slowdown in 2020 due to the global pandemic, the demand for lighter and replacement parts is expected to drive further growth in the aerospace 3D printing market.
Maintenance and Repair
The surge in composite material usage presents a wide array of opportunities for engineers and technicians in the fields of maintenance and repairs. Unlike aluminum, which shows visible signs of damage like dents or bends easily spotted during inspections, composite components necessitate ultrasonic scanning for damage detection. This necessity catalyzes investments in new equipment, advancements in digital technologies, and the hiring of skilled workers. Airbus has forecasted that by 2036, the maintenance, repair, and operations segment will reach a market size of $120 billion. According to Airbus, the industry is anticipated to require around 500,000 technicians to meet its demands, while Boeing's predictions are slightly higher, at 648,000 by the year 2037. Moreover, as the aerospace sector evolves, there will be an increasing reliance on digital technology across various domains, including avionics, composite materials management, troubleshooting, production, and design.
Digitization
The concept of digitalization has become a key theme within the aerospace sector due to its significant impact. Innovative digitization techniques allow for the rapid collection and detailed analysis of extensive data volumes. This process facilitates the early detection of maintenance needs, enabling proactive repairs and replacements before failures occur. Furthermore, it assists in optimizing the scheduling and allocation of personnel for these tasks. The surge of data and advanced analytics also propels the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality. This technology enhances the ability of engineers and technicians to examine every aspect of an assembly, both internally and externally, while also streamlining access to manuals and other critical information through portable devices. Integrating these technological advancements promises to refine the entire supply chain and operational workflows, resulting in significant time and cost efficiencies.
