Hybrid method for rapid prototyping of core models of aircraft engine blades

The paper presents the possibility of using CAD/RP for the design and manufacture of the core models used for precise casting of core aircraft engine turbine blades, with directional crystallization process and single crystallization. The process of modelling 3D CAD geometry of research blade in relation to the model of the core was presented. The sample design, blade base model, was made by one of the incremental method of rapid prototyping - Jetting System. The geometry of the blade model has been designed in a way, which allows making a silicon form on the basis of a base prototype in the process of rapid prototyping tools (Rapid Tooling). The form allows the attachment of the blade core in a place designed specifically for this purpose. The silicon form has enabled the production of wax models with the inner core. This task was achieved by proper shaping of forms with the plane of its division. The resulting models were used to make ceramic moulds and carry further work on the development of casting technology in the process of directional crystallization and single crystallization of core blades of aircraft engines.