Safran has recently entered into an R&D contract with the MetaFensch* research platform and the Eramet metallurgical group with the aim of developing the French titanium sector of the future.
Under this partnership, Safran, which uses titanium to manufacture its products, will take part in two pilot projects at MetaFensch’s site in Uckange in the east of France. The first pilot project aims to develop a titanium powder production process and the second focuses on recycling unusable titanium powders for direct manufacturing. “The goal is to acquire expertise in the manufacturing of titanium powders and the recovery of production waste. In the long term, it is also a matter of being able to recycle high-performance alloy parts with a view to creating a genuine circular economy within the Group,” explains Ludovic Molliex, Vice-President, Materials and Processes, Safran.
Safran will lend its expertise in high-performance alloys and must approve their quality and that of the powders produced. Aubert & Duval, a subsidiary of Eramet and long-standing Safran supplier, will be tasked with the process engineering. Lastly, the MetaFensch platform is tasked with managing the operational aspects and will provide the production facilities.
In addition to lending its materials expertise, Safran is also helping to develop the new French titanium sector. The titanium alloys made by EcoTitanium could eventually be used to supply three of the Group’s companies: Safran Aircraft Engines (engines), Safran Aero Boosters (equipment for engines) and Safran Landing Systems (landing gear).
