Aerospace additive manufacturing is advancing through the collaboration of Beehive Industries and the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Jonaaron Jones, the president and general manager of Beehive Industries’ external parts business, has been a key figure in this progress. His journey began as a master's student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he was introduced to 3D printing metal components, leading him to focus on additive manufacturing for industries like aviation, defense, and energy.
According to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory website, Beehive Industries, which specializes in jet engine design and defense manufacturing, has benefited from its partnership with the MDF to drive technical and economic advancements in the U.S. ORNL’s Suresh Babu, former UT-ORNL Governor’s Chair of Advanced Manufacturing, played a pivotal role in mentoring Jones and connecting him with key industry resources and partners. This collaboration has helped address challenges in the aerospace supply chain through innovative additive manufacturing solutions.
In 2015, Jones and his team, with support from the Air Force Research Laboratory and the Defense Production Act, worked to reduce lead times and quality issues for cast parts by 3D printing aluminum components for the RL10 liquid rocket engine. This innovation led to the founding of Volunteer Aerospace, which was acquired by Beehive Industries in 2021.
Beehive’s new $4 million facility in Knox County, opened in May 2024, highlights the company’s growth. The proximity to the MDF enhances collaboration and addresses technological challenges. The new facility aims to produce and validate jet engine components and create over 150 high-technology jobs.
Looking ahead, Beehive is working with the MDF on developing next-generation aluminum alloys for aerospace applications. As the demand for additive manufacturing grows, companies like Beehive are well-positioned to meet market needs, drive innovation, and create jobs.
