![Gas turbine blades produced using Additive Manufacturing technology [source: Siemens]](http://gastopower.co.uk/media/k2/items/cache/7bbb2ed794dcfa0f4c0410f48014677d_S.jpg)
Siemens has successfully completed tests for gas turbine blades completely produced using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology.
Additive Manufacturing is a process that builds parts layer-by-layer from sliced CAD models to form solid objects.
Also known as '3D printing', “it especially provides benefits in rapid prototyping” Siemens explained.
During the tests, Siemens successfully validated multiple AM printed turbine blades with a conventional blade design at full engine conditions.
Furthermore, Siemens tested a new blade design with “a completely revised and improved internal cooling geometry” manufactured using the AM technology.
The blades were manufactured at its 3D printing facility at Materials Solutions, the newly acquired company in Worcester, UK.
They are made out of a powder of high performing polycrystalline nickel superalloy “allowing them to endure high pressure, hot temperatures and the rotational forces of the turbine's high speed operation” Siemens said.
"This is a breakthrough success for the use of Additive Manufacturing in the power generation field, which is one of the most challenging applications for this technology” said Willi Meixner, CEO of the Siemens power and gas division, adding that “Additive Manufacturing is one of our main pillars in our digitalization strategy.”
The blades were installed in a Siemens SGT-400 industrial gas turbine with a capacity of 13 MW.
Siemens “extensively uses AM technology for rapid prototyping” and has already introduced serial production solutions for components in the gas turbines' compressor and combustion system, it said.
In February 2016 the company opened a new production facility for 3D printed components in Finspang, Sweden. The first 3D printed component for a Siemens heavy-duty gas turbine is in commercial operation since July 2016.