Frazer-Nash has produced a novel fastener for its customer, Kwikbolt on installing Renishaw AM 400 additive manufacturing (AM) systems. The new fastener will be used during aircraft assembly and can be manufactured quicker with low-cost, compared to traditional subtractive machining methods.

Frazer-Nash additively manufactures the fasteners on Renishaw’s AM 400, to simplify the fastener’s manufacturing process. AM method ensures fasteners are produced with custom geometries at comparatively lower cost.

Stuart Offer, AM-Sales Manager at Renishaw, explained, “By using AM, Frazer-Nash is able to produce components cost-effectively in small batch sizes. In contrast to machining, no custom tooling is required, which results in improvements in speed and a reduction in manufacturing costs, particularly for such a difficult to machine part.”

In 2014, Frazer-Nash decided to bring AM capabilities in-house with Renishaw’s AM 250 systems. Having worked closely with Renishaw since then, they have now purchased the AM 400, which is currently used to produce metal parts for customers.

One of Frazer-Nash’s most successful projects is for its customer Kwikbolt, who are working to revolutionise the assembly of aircraft. Kwikbolt is one of only a few businesses in the world to produce a specific temporary fastening device, which is used to align aircraft panels and fuselage during assembly. The component simplifies the manufacturing process and ensures that aerospace companies no longer require a bespoke tool for every panel, helping to reduce costs, improve precision and speed up assembly.

Paul Mortlock, Managing Director at Frazer Nash, explained, “The Kwikbolt project is a true AM success story. Using AM means we can easily produce a bespoke component based on each aerospace customer's requirements. Renishaw's AM systems have been flawless since we started working together. Frazer-Nash now produces 25,000 AM parts a year and has expanded its range of components.”

“Over the last five years, we have developed a close partnership with Renishaw. We originally chose to partner with Renishaw due to its support services and we have found these to be invaluable,” Mortlock added.