Back in 2014, 3D rocket components were a novelty, but fast forward to today, and 3D printing is revolutionizing rocket building. Launcher, on a quest to craft the world’s most efficient rockets, recently integrated its second VELO3D additive manufacturing process.
Initially printing Inconel parts, they’re now venturing into titanium rocket components. Successful NASA tests for liquid oxygen-propelled Launcher to print a fuel pump, turbine components, and Orbiter pressure vessels. Max Haot, CEO of Launcher, praises VELO3D’s efficiency, noting cost reduction and increased innovation in turbo-pump production. While Launcher has embraced VELO3D’s technology in Los Angeles, scaling up production may involve leveraging VELO3D’s manufacturing associates like Stratasys Direct Manufacturing. Benny Buller, CEO of VELO3D, highlights Launcher’s endorsement as a testament to the technology’s quality, adding them to a prestigious list alongside SpaceX. This not only underscores the growing influence of 3D printing in rocket development but also hints at a sustainable future for material printing during space missions. The stars are no longer the limit; 3D printing is propelling rocket science into a new era.
Max Haot, the brain behind Launcher, shared some exciting news about VELO3D’s efficiency. He revealed, “The turbopump, with its 3D rotating propeller, ran like a charm at 30,000rpm using our prototype.” Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Developing a turbopump is a budget buster, and design flexibility tends to shrink with each attempt. But with VELO3D’s 3D tech, Launcher can whip up turbopumps affordably and boost innovation through continuous prototype tweaking.
Although VELO3D’s tech has found a home in Launcher’s Los Angeles facility, scaling up production calls for reinforcements. That’s where VELO3D’s manufacturing associates, like Stratasys Direct Manufacturing, come into play. Benny Buller, VELO3D’s CEO, chimed in, emphasizing Launcher’s success in advanced meta additive manufacturing. He sees immense potential for this technology to further elevate Launcher’s triumphs.
Launcher is now part of the VELO3D fan club, joining other big players like SpaceX in embracing metal printing technology. This not only underscores the rise of 3D printing in rocket construction but also sparks thoughts about a sustainable future—imagine printing materials even during space missions. It’s not just rocket science; it’s a leap into an innovative, cost-effective, and eco-friendly future for space exploration.
