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# 3D-Printed Airplane Building Tools
This Trim-and-Drill Tool is the World's Largest 3D-Printed Tool

By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2016-08-30 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/trimanddrill
References: [newatlas](http://newatlas.com/largest-3d-printed-item-record/45149/) & [ornl.gov](https://www.ornl.gov/news/3d-printed-tool-building-aircraft-achieves-guinness-world-records-title)

Trim-and-drill tools are exceptionally important in the world of aeronautical construction and engineering; now however, the tool has been taken to the next level by being constructed by none other than Oak Ridge National Laboratory in 3D-printed form, making it the largest 3D-printed solid item ever created.

This particular 3D-printed trim-and-drill tool is comprised of ABS thermoplastic and carbon fiber. Weighing in at nearly 750 kg and measuring in at 5.3 x 1.7 x 0.5 meters, the tool has been certified by Guinness World Records.

The world record recognition means a whole lot more than mere hype, as it goes to show the usefulness of modern 3D-printing technologies in helping to aid large-scale engineering projects thanks to their ability to utilize less materials without adversely affecting functionality.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.4/10
- Popularity: 27% | Activity: 36% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Science](https://www.trendhunter.com/science)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Large-scale 3D Printing:** The use of 3D printing for creating large-scale tools and equipment presents an opportunity for faster and more cost-effective manufacturing in a variety of industries.
- **Lightweight Materials:** The combination of ABS thermoplastic and carbon fiber in the 3D printed tool highlights the potential for lightweight yet durable materials in aviation and other industries.
- **Sustainable Manufacturing:** By utilizing less materials and reducing waste, 3D printing offers a promising avenue for more environmentally-friendly manufacturing practices in various industries.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Aviation:** The use of 3D printing for constructing large tools and equipment offers increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the aviation industry.
- **Engineering:** 3D printing has the potential to revolutionize the way large-scale engineering projects are approached by reducing waste and enabling faster manufacturing.
- **Manufacturing:** The ability to 3D print large tools and equipment presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for more cost-effective and sustainable manufacturing processes across various industries.

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