Hexcel HexAM additive manufacturing approved by Boeing for commercial aircraft platforms

Hexcel Corporation has been approved by Boeing to produce HexPEKK-100 aerospace structures for major commercial aircraft platforms.

After rigorous review of Hexcel's proprietary poly-ether-ketone-ketone and carbon fiber material formulation, Hexcel's superior HexPEKK-100 end-use components – as well as its highly-controlled HexAM additive manufacturing process (which uses selective laser sintering) – are now obtainable through Boeing's Qualified Provider List (QPL). These HexPEKK components will be manufactured-to-print for commercial aerospace applications where complexity, weight reduction, and strong mechanical performance are critical.

Hexcel provides high-rate serial part production with reduced lead-time and at a lower cost than traditional intricately machined aluminum or composite structures. HexPEKK-100 parts meet interior aircraft smoke and toxicity requirements and are ideal for complex components such as optimized brackets, environmental control system ducts, and castings.