3D printing a Bell Helicopter blade mould with Thermwood

A joint venture program between Thermwood and Bell has pushed the limits of 3D printing, resulting in what Thermwood believes is the largest 3D printed autoclave capable tool ever made.

A joint venture program between Thermwood and Bell Helicopter has pushed the limits of 3D printing, resulting in what Thermwood believes is the largest 3D printed autoclave capable tool ever made.

This mould was for an 18.5ft long helicopter blade, and is comprised of two halves, which fit together to form the blade. It was printed and machined on a Thermwood LSAM 3D Printer.

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