Assuming that all that's found in the following links are accurate, I believe we can say that GE is committed to producing ti-alloy blades at some stage of a jet engine, and for that reason, they are aggressively seeking to improve the economics of metal powder production.
Italicized excerpts precede the links within which they are contained.
The joint venture will lead to the production of a new meltless titanium alloy powder manufacturing technology, specifically for additive manufacturing applications. The terms of the agreement include the construction of a new R&D pilot production facility.
Looking further into meltless ti, "The meltless Ti alloy powders can be consolidated into mill products, or used to manufacture near-net shape (NNS) components. A vision is outlined for creation of a new supply chain producing meltless Ti alloy powders, leading to the production and application of innovative turbine engine components."
In summary, the attractiveness of titanium PM has been recognized for several decades, but its potential is yet to be realized as an industrial manufacturing approach. The major challenge to be overcome is economic. New titanium powder products from a few emerging meltless production processes may provide an improved basis for further development.
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