Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of Aerospace Manufacturing
Discover how NMG Aerospace is leveraging 3D printing, AI, sustainable materials, and digitalization to drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in 2025 and beyond.
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Manufacturing technology is growing in leaps and bounds in recent years, thanks to tremendous advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), new manufacturing techniques, and increased demand for sustainability. While not every trend has staying power, some manufacturing trends become best practices that drive aircraft industry growth for years to come.
Be the first to successfully integrate those fresh ideas into their own processes by staying informed on current trends in manufacturing and technological advancements. This results in better, more competitive products.
Continue reading for an overview of these manufacturing trends that will drive aircraft industry growth in 2025 and beyond.
Trend 1: Advancements in Additive Manufacturing (3-D Printing) in The Aerospace Industry
3D printing is one of the more newsworthy current trends in manufacturing. 3D printing and other additive manufacturing methods have become more sophisticated and widespread in recent years. 3D components are created layer by layer, using a wide range of materials. 3D printing and additive manufacturing allow for a great deal of complexity in terms of both shape and texture.
Because additive manufacturing, especially on an industrial scale, is fairly new technology, the long-term potential for the aerospace industry and the future of manufacturing remains to be seen. However, it’s safe to say that 3D printing and other new methods represent a world of possibility for aerospace component design and in the future of manufacturing.
Benefits of 3D Printing In Aircraft Manufacturing
- It’s fast: 3D printing is more efficient than other manufacturing methods.
- It’s cheap: Both the technology and the materials can be inexpensive, resulting in cost savings.
- 3D-printed parts are light: Weight reduction, or “lightweighting,” is incredibly valuable in the aerospace industry, where every ounce impacts the aircraft’s energy consumption.
- The customization options are endless: 3D printers are compatible with a growing number of different materials, and product design is not hampered by the limitations of traditional manufacturing methods.
- 3D printing is eco-friendly: Many sustainable and recyclable materials are compatible with additive manufacturing technology, which produces far less scrap than other manufacturing methods.
Trend 2: An Increased Use of Sustainable Materials in Aerospace Manufacturing
Sustainable materials are a growing trend in aerospace manufacturing. This includes:
- Thermoplastic polymers: In addition to being lightweight and durable, thermoplastic polymers are easy to recycle and repurpose. Additionally, the production process for thermoplastics consumes less energy than other materials. Thermoplastic polymers are commonly used to make everything from engine pylons and sensor plates to carbon partitions and luggage bins.
- Bio-based composites: Traditionally, composites are made from fossil-sourced materials, such as petroleum. Many companies are experimenting with natural fibers, resins, and even wood to create more environmentally friendly composites that are just as light and strong as their predecessors.
- Recycled materials: Aluminum, carbon fiber, and other materials can be recycled without any detrimental effects on their performance properties.
Sustainability goes hand in hand with regulatory compliance. Countless industries, from consumer products to aerospace, are changing their practices to comply with new and anticipated environmental regulations from government agencies and regulatory bodies all over the world, which is likely to have a major impact on the future of manufacturing. With more regions and industries embracing this manufacturing trend, adopting sustainable practices can be a smart, proactive step to ensure smoother compliance with future regulations.
Another trend in aerospace manufacturing is experimentation with more sustainable fuels, which is driving innovation in material selection for fuel assemblies.
Benefits of Sustainable Efforts in The Aerospace Industry
Choosing sustainable materials is just one option for companies looking to increase the sustainability of their business practices. Adopting other manufacturing trends related to sustainability has countless benefits, ranging from cost savings to brand image.
- Sustainability is good for the environment: Companies can drastically reduce their carbon footprint and their environmental impact by adopting even just a few sustainable practices, such as choosing recycled materials or increasing energy efficiency at their facilities. This is critical for protecting and preserving wildlife, biodiversity, and delicate ecosystems all over the world.
- Sustainability saves money: Recycled materials, waste reduction practices, energy-efficient manufacturing facilities, and fuel-efficient aircraft are often the less expensive alternatives, freeing up precious funds for other projects.
- Sustainability is good PR: Consumers and companies alike are prioritizing sustainability when making purchasing decisions, a trend in aerospace manufacturing as well as other industries. Manufacturers that adhere to sustainable practices are more likely to earn these customers’ business.
Trend 3: How AI Is Used in Aerospace Manufacturing
Many people are aware of artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for increasing efficiency and productivity in manufacturing environments. However, there are many applications for AI beyond productivity optimization. AI can predict failures and maintenance needs early, giving technicians the opportunity to correct small issues before they grow into big problems and reducing overall downtime. AI can also be used for quality control: AI systems can inspect finished components and assemblies and detect even the smallest defects.
The value of AI extends well beyond the manufacturing floor. AI can be a reliable tool for data analysis and demand forecasting, allowing manufacturers to make confident predictions about upcoming production volumes, customer needs, and other trends in aerospace manufacturing. This allows manufacturers to be good stewards of their time and resources and removes some of the guesswork from their planning processes as they strive to keep pace with aircraft industry growth.
The above is merely a sample of what AI is capable of. Scientists and business leaders are discovering new applications for AI every single day, and its countless uses will undoubtedly have a tremendous impact on aerospace manufacturing. From productivity and quality to forecasting and aerospace research and development, AI is likely to impact aircraft industry growth at every level and play a major role in shaping the future of manufacturing.
Trend 4: Digitalization and Smart Systems in Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace manufacturing is incorporating new digital tools and systems, such as the Internet of Things and simulation technology, into every step of the process. As these current trends in manufacturing become increasingly sophisticated, they open up new possibilities for aircraft industry growth, from increased efficiency to better equipment maintenance to waste reduction, and will have a tremendous impact on the future of manufacturing.
Smart Systems
“Smart system”, is something of an umbrella term for systems that leverage a variety of tools, such as AI, Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning, for the sake of optimization. Smart systems can monitor equipment, production, and other variables in search of opportunities to optimize for efficiency and improve quality output.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a growing trend in aerospace manufacturing. IoT refers to the integration of sensors and intelligence into machines, from microwaves to manufacturing equipment. The general objective of IoT is to streamline communication between humans and machines, resulting in better coordination and greater efficiency.
In a manufacturing setting, sensors may be placed on every piece of equipment or system component on a given production line. These sensors gather and report data more quickly and more effectively than a human overseer, resulting in greater efficiency. For example, a sensor may detect a minor vibration or other anomaly indicating that a machine needs maintenance. Because technicians are notified early, they can find and fix the issue before it becomes a real problem. This type of predictive maintenance can reduce downtime, which is key in manufacturing.
Digital Twins & Simulations
A digital twin is a virtual copy of a physical object, with all the same traits and components. A digital twin allows product engineers and designers to test different iterations and improvements in a virtual environment without having to invest in physical prototypes at every stage of development. This can save time, reduce costs, and cut down on waste.
Prepare For Takeoff: Embrace the Future of Aerospace Manufacturing Today
With over 55 years of experience in aerospace manufacturing, NMG Aerospace has witnessed and participated in decades of technological advancement, manufacturing trends, and aircraft industry growth. We understand how to integrate new technologies with steadfast aerospace engineering and design principles and can help you leverage current trends in manufacturing in your own products.
Discover how to future-proof your aerospace manufacturing processes by integrating cutting-edge trends. Schedule a consultation with NMG Aerospace to stay ahead in 2025 and beyond.
www.nmgaerospace.com
