# QinetiQ advances aerospace recycling with flight-tested 3D-printed titanium component

- Link: https://www.directorstalkinterviews.com/qinetiq-advances-aerospace-recycling-with-flight-tested-3d-printed-titanium-component/4121244297
- Published: 2026-03-12T12:27:00+00:00
- Author: Amilia Stone

QinetiQ has successfully flight tested an aircraft structural component produced
using additive manufacturing and titanium recovered from a retired aircraft, demonstrating
a practical route for recycling high-value aerospace metals into new operational
parts. The company is held within the portfolio of [Global Opportunities Trust](https://www.directorstalkinterviews.com/company/global-opportunities-trust-plc/got.l).

The test involved a titanium hinge manufactured through metal 3D printing and installed
on an air data boom assembly fitted to an Agusta A109S helicopter operated by QinetiQ’s
Flight Test Organisation. The aircraft is used for flight test training and airborne
measurement work, providing a platform for evaluating new hardware under real operating
conditions.

The hinge forms part of the structural attachment for the helicopter’s air data 
boom. These booms extend forward from the aircraft and carry sensors that measure
aerodynamic parameters including airspeed, pressure and angle of attack. Because
the equipment gathers flight performance data, the structural integrity of the mounting
components is important for safe operation.

Engineers at QinetiQ designed the hinge specifically for additive manufacturing 
and integrated it into the aircraft for the flight test. The titanium used to produce
the part came from a decommissioned aircraft and was processed into metal powder
suitable for additive manufacturing. The component was printed by Additive Manufacturing
Solutions Limited using the recycled titanium feedstock.

The successful flight demonstrates that titanium recovered from retired aircraft
can be reprocessed and reused to produce a structural aerospace component capable
of operating in service conditions. The programme therefore provides a working example
of how recycled aerospace materials can be returned to operational use through additive
manufacturing.

_**Global Opportunities Trust plc** LON:GOT) invests globally in undervalued asset
classes without reference to the composition of any stock market index._

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