Lohia Aerospace Systems has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with industrial technology company Massivit to introduce large-format additive manufacturing technology for composite tooling and aerospace components in India. Under the agreement, Massivit's large-format 3D-printing platform will be installed at Lohia Aerospace's facility in Kanpur, marking the first commercial deployment of the technology for composite manufacturing in the country. The companies said the collaboration aims to reduce tooling lead times and support domestic production in the aerospace and defence sectors. According to Lohia Aerospace, the technology will enable the production of moulds and manufacturing tools in days instead of weeks, potentially reducing production cycles by up to 90 per cent. The company plans to invest between USD 8 million and USD 10 million over the next two years, depending on market demand. The investment will support an ongoing expansion of the company's manufacturing infrastructure in Kanpur, where a new 250,000-square-foot facility is being developed alongside its existing 80,000-square-foot plant. Lohia Aerospace said each large-format printer can produce up to two complete tool sets per day. The company expects to deploy eight to ten printers in the near term, a move that could generate between 60 and 100 skilled jobs. The partnership covers the manufacture of composite tooling and components for aerospace and defence applications, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and manned aircraft. Under the agreement, Lohia Aerospace will hold exclusive rights to use the platform in India's aerospace and defence sectors. Company executives said the technology could help reduce dependence on imported tooling, which currently dominates the domestic market. The firms estimate that individual tools produced using the platform could be priced between USD 10,000 and USD 20,000. "Lohia Aerospace's collaboration with Massivit is intended to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities and support the growing demand for aerospace and defence production in India," the company said in a statement. Lohia Aerospace, based in Kanpur, manufactures composite products for domestic and international customers and holds ISO 9001, AS9100D and NADCAP certifications. Massivit specialises in large-format additive manufacturing technologies for industries including aerospace and defence. (ICE NEW DELHI)

Fonte notizia: Business World