3D Printed Turbine Blades for More Efficient Power Generation | The Cool Parts Show #35

The Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory worked with Solar Turbines to prove the effectiveness of turbine blades made through additive manufacturing. A typical turbine used in power generation includes hundreds of turbine blades, and Oak Ridge researchers 3D printed nearly 300 blades for this testing. The blades were made via electron beam melting (EBM) to the same design as existing turbine blades, as well in the same material, Inconel 738, meaning the researchers had to master EBM for this unusual alloy. Proving that AM can reliably produce today’s blades is just the start, because the promise is that turbine blades made via additive will incorporate complex internal cooling channels allowing turbines to run hotter for greater efficiency. In this episode, learn about the manufacturing challenges that were overcome, as well as the engineering possibilities of 3D printed turbine blades. This episode brought to you by Carpenter Additive.  LEARN MORE ABOUT: - Oak Ridge National Laboratory Manufacturing Demonstration Facility: - Solar Turbines: Electron beam melting technology provider GE Additive: - EBM applications related to…. Mars: Implants: Meerkats: HAVE A COOL 3D PRINTED PART TO SHARE?  Tell us about it! Email coolparts@ or comment below.  ----------------------------  FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:  - Twitter   - Facebook   - Instagram   - LinkedIn   ----------------------------  ABOUT ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING MEDIA:  Additive Manufacturing is the leading media brand covering 3D printing for industrial applications. In addition to the print magazine, AM includes a website, e-newsletter and annual conference.    Visit Additive Manufacturing online at   Subscribe at