3D printing technology is fast evolving, with companies now producing objects ranging from castles to lawn mowers. But until now, no one has been able to print a 3D airplane that flies. Now, European aerospace company, Airbus, has created a mini-plane, named Thor, which is the world's first 3D printed aircraft.

Thor is a windowless drone that weighs in at 46 pounds (21 kilograms) and is less than four metres (13 feet) in length, looking more like a model airplane than the jets we would normally recognize.

The aircraft is completely 3D printed, except the electrical elements, which are built from a substance called polyamide. Both Airbus, and their rival, Boeing, are using 3D printing to make parts for some of their planes, such as the A350 and B787 Dream liner. However, at only 46 pounds (21 kilograms) and less than four metres (13 feet) in length, Thor is the first time an entire aircraft has been 3D printed.

Speaking to AFP, Jens Henzler, managing director of Hofmann Innovation Group, said: 'The printed pieces have the advantage of requiring no tools and that they can be made very quickly. 'The metal parts produced can also be 30-50 per cent lighter than in the past, and there is almost zero manufacturing waste.'

However, 3D printing does not stop with planes - engineers are also looking to use it in space. The European Space Agency (ESA) are planning to launch their Ariane 6 rocket in 2020, which is set to feature 3D printed parts. Partially as a result of this, the Ariane 6 may have half the price tag of its predecessor Ariane 5.
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Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3627187/World-s-3D-printed-plane-unveiled-Airbus-windowless-Thor-aircraft-pave-way-cheaper-faster-flights.html

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Technology sha, when will Nigeria join the technological race!!