China's innovative "shark skin" technology could propel the next generation of aircraft engines beyond the capabilities of the US military. According to the South China Morning Post, researchers in western China have developed a groundbreaking shark skin structure for turbofan engines. This new design can reduce drag by 10% and significantly enhance engine efficiency. Leveraging high-strength, large-scale titanium alloy precision 3D printing, this breakthrough could enable China to close the gap with the United States in developing next-generation aircraft engines.
The global demand for more efficient, fuel-saving engines is increasing, presenting numerous challenges in engine technology research and development. The US Air Force's recent decision to abandon the Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP) in favor of upgrading existing engines is seen as an opportunity for China to catch up. Additionally, China imposed export restrictions on high-end aero engine components and technologies with potential military applications.
Chinese customs data revealed that the United States was the largest buyer of Chinese aviation products in early 2024. While China has historically lagged behind the US in aero engine technology, this gap is rapidly narrowing thanks to advancements in 3D printing technology. In December 2022, General Electric (GE) announced its use of laser 3D printing technology for turbine center frames. A year later, a Chinese research team presented a paper on a more complex and larger component, attributed to collaboration with Northwestern Polytechnical University.
The intermediate casing, over 1 meter in diameter, features biomimetic grooves thinner than a human hair. Precision 3D printing of such large-scale carbide components was once considered impossible. Despite its thinnest section being just 3 mm, it can endure loads exceeding 10 tons. Using mainstream 3D printing technology and commercial software, the research team developed a prototype 25% lighter than traditional castings. Laboratory tests confirmed its compliance with mechanical properties, weight reduction, and manufacturability requirements.
China's breakthroughs in aviation engine technology demonstrate its substantial potential in high-tech fields. These advancements not only position China more advantageously in the global aviation industry but also pave the way for future technological innovations. The shift from traditional manufacturing processes to 3D printing technology indicates China's gradual closing of the technological gap with Western developed countries.
