Space
Supernova Creates Defense and Space Business Unit to Develop 3D Printing of Military-Grade Energetic Materials
Target applications for the new business unit include solid rocket motors which are critical components for the next-generation hypersonic platforms.
Read MoreSciaky Manufactures Critical EBAM Component for Intuitive Machines’ Moon Landing
The Sciaky engine component was the upper section of the IM-1 lander’s main engine nozzle, which provided the main source of thrust for descent in the February 2024 mission to the Moon.
Read MoreAdditive Manufacturing at NASA (Part 2): AM Radio #52
In this follow-up podcast episode on additive manufacturing at NASA, Dr. Tim Simpson joins us to discuss how the organization thinks about AM overall, and its role in advancing additive alongside and in service of commercial industry.
ListenAdditive Manufacturing at NASA (Part 1): AM Radio #51
In this first episode of a two-part special on additive manufacturing at NASA, we discuss three specific 3D printed parts for upcoming missions and share observations about the organization’s approach to AM.
ListenWill the Successes of NASA’s RAMFIRE Project Lead to an Operational Aerospike Engine?
NASA’s RAMFIRE project has additively manufactured a 36-inch diameter aerospike nozzle with complex integral coolant channels for a more efficient way to propel rockets to outer space. NASA engineers will use this as a proof of concept to inform future component designs.
Read MoreFrom Elementum 3D: Will NASA’s RAMFIRE Project Lead to an Operational Aerospike Engine?
This chronicle from Elementum 3D describes the success of NASA’s RAMFIRE project which additively manufactured a 36-inch diameter aerospike nozzle with complex integral coolant channels for a more efficient way to propel rockets to outer space. Engineers plan to use this as a proof of concept for future component designs as NASA reimagines rocket engine technology.
Read MoreStoke Space Uses Solukon Technology for Depowdering of Rocket Parts
Stoke’s first- and second-stage engine thrust chambers are additively designed and manufactured in-house with regenerative cooling channels and built-in manifolds, which have features and internal cavities that are typically difficult to depowder.
Read More3D Printed NASA Thrust Chamber Assembly Combines Two Metal Processes: The Cool Parts Show #71
Laser powder bed fusion and directed energy deposition combine for an integrated multimetal rocket propulsion system that will save cost and time for NASA. The Cool Parts Show visits NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.
WatchCryogenic Tanks for Space Refueling: The Cool Parts Show All Access
NASA's Paul Gradl describes an important application of AM beyond the spacecraft itself: refueling the spacecraft. Directed energy deposition offers the most practical way to produce aluminum tanks to keep fuel supercool.
WatchSidus Space Successfully Launches LizzieSat Hybrid 3D-Printed Satellite
The hybrid 3D-printed satellite was manufactured using Markforged 3D printers for parts that would be incredibly lightweight, durable and custom to the structure to ensure the satellite remains intact during launch and works properly for its full life span in space.
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