LADDER: Laser Automation and Design Development for future Engine Requirements

该项目旨在通过ITP Aero UK（ITP）、制造技术中心（MTC）和诺丁汉大学（UoN）的专家合作，开发和实施一种创新的激光束焊接（LBW）解决方案，作为复杂钣金航空发动机制造的稳健连接技术。激光束焊接可快速产生具有小热影响区的窄焊缝。高度可重复的过程，提供低失真，将在短期内使用，以减少与不一致相关的成本。从长远来看，国际民航组织制定的严格的新排放目标将需要进一步提高发动机温度，这意味着需要更高性能，更高效的冷却系统。LBW设计将增加空气量和冲击冷却的表面积。同时应对降低产品成本的挑战，同时开发满足不断增长的要求的未来产品的能力，将确保具有竞争力的英国复杂钣金航空发动机制造供应链。

This project aims to develop and implement an innovative laser beam welding (LBW) solution, as a robust joining technology for complex sheet-metal aeroengine fabrications, through a collaboration of specialists at ITP Aero UK (ITP), Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and University of Nottingham (UoN).Laser beam welding produces narrow welds with a small heat affected zone, at high rates. The highly repeatable process, offering low-distortion, will be used in the short term to reduce cost associated with non-conformance. In the longer term, it is recognised that the stringent new emissions targets set by ICAO will necessitate further increases in engine temperatures, meaning higher performance, more efficient cooling systems will be needed. Design for LBW will enable increased air volumes and increased surface areas for impingement cooling.Simultaneously approaching the challenge of reducing product cost, whilst also developing capability to deliver future products to an ever-increasing set of requirements, will secure a competitive, UK-based supply chain for complex sheet-metal aeroengine fabrications.