Conflux Technology to 3D print new RPAS heat exchangers

Geelong-based Additive Manufacturing (AM) specialist Conflux Technology has partnered with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) to develop a new family of 3D-printed heat exchangers for possible use on GA-ASI’s range of UAVs. Defence recently selected GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian as the ADF’s first armed UAV, or Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), under Project AIR 7003.

Conflux Technology specialises in thermal and fluid engineering and is providing design expertise to optimise AM heat exchangers and increase RPAS performance. The aim is to achieve enhanced endurance and lower manufacturing costs as well as greater flexibility in product design and integration.

The company’s revolutionary heat exchanger technology has found applications in the aerospace, defence, industrial, oil and gas, automotive and motorsports sectors. Its vertically integrated, advanced manufacturing operations encompass design and CFP analysis through to in-house AM production. Conflux Technology had its start originally in the Formula 1 engineering world.