Scientists Successfully 3D Print Titanium Fuel Tank for Space Travel, Marking First Pass of Critical Durability Test Worldwide
In a groundbreaking development, a South Korean research consortium has successfully 3D printed a titanium fuel tank, marking a significant milestone in the world of additive manufacturing (3D printing) and its practical application in the space industry [1][2][3].
The fuel tank, with a diameter of 640mm, was manufactured using Directed Energy Deposition (DED), a laser-based 3D printing technique that melts titanium wire to create complex, custom shapes without molds [2]. This method offers rapid iteration and design flexibility compared to traditional forging.
The tank was cooled using liquid nitrogen and reached a temperature of -320.8 F° (-196°C) [3]. It passed critical extreme condition tests involving cryogenic temperatures and high pressures (330 bar), simulating real spaceflight conditions [1][2][3]. This is not the first instance of 3D printed components passing crucial tests for space travel [4].
The team plans to conduct cyclic pressure testing to evaluate performance over repeated stress cycles and further certifications to ready the tanks for actual space deployment [2][3]. This breakthrough demonstrates how 3D printing can enable faster, more customizable, and potentially cost-effective production of high-performance space components [1][2][3][4].
The Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, in collaboration with the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), KP Aviation Industries, Hanyang University, and AM Solutions, were involved in this achievement [3]. In a separate instance, 3D printed components were coated before passing particle contamination tests [4].
This development is a significant step in enabling private and one-off space technology [1]. However, it is important to note that this technology is still in the early stages of development and isn't commercially available yet.
For those interested in dabbling in 3D printing, a list of the best 3D printers is available [5]. To stay updated on the latest news and in-depth reviews from Tom's Hardware, subscribe to their newsletter, and follow them on Google News for regular updates [6][7].
[1] https://www.3dnatives.eu/news/2021/08/south-korean-researchers-3d-print-large-titanium-fuel-tank-13082021/ [2] https://www.3ders.org/articles/20210820/south-korean-research-consortium-3d-prints-large-titanium-fuel-tank-for-space-applications.html [3] https://www.tomsguide.com/news/south-korean-researchers-3d-print-large-titanium-fuel-tank-for-space-applications,review-4766.html [4] https://www.tomsguide.com/news/3d-printed-titanium-fuel-tank-passes-space-test,review-4767.html [5] https://www.tomsguide.com/best-3d-printers,review-4331.html [6] https://www.tomsguide.com/us/subscribe,news-2349.html [7] https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqLggKIihDQklWaWdwbW9tYW5kLmNvbQ?oc=5&ceid=US:en&gl=US&hl=en&ned=us&arid=AAP_3d_printed_fuel_tank_passes_space_test_Tom's_Hardware&source=rss&ust=1632402898785000&usg=AOvVaw0o5F8MWQ_9RwU1jXeUUhjQ
Science and technology have taken leaps in the space-and-astronomy sector with the successful 3D printing of a titanium fuel tank by a South Korean research consortium, using Directed Energy Deposition (DED) technique. This development represents a significant milestone as this 3D printed tank, with a diameter of 640mm, passed extreme condition tests involving cryogenic temperatures and high pressures, simulating real spaceflight conditions.
