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First Metal 3D Printing on International Space Station
Context:
The ISS’s Columbus laboratory module recently hosted the first metal 3D printing event.
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- A single s-curve deposited in liquefied stainless steel represents a significant advancement in in-orbit manufacturing.
- The ESA technical officer confirmed that the commissioning of their Metal 3D Printer has been completed using an S-curve test line.
- The achievement is attributed to the collective efforts of Airbus Defense, Space SAS, the CADMOS User Support Centre in France, and the ESA team.
3D Printing on the ISS
- The first metal 3D printer aboard the International Space Station (ISS) successfully created a molten “S curve”.
- Significance: ESA calls it a “giant leap forward for in-orbit manufacturing.
- Technology and Operation
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- Technology: The printer uses a high-power laser and stainless-steel wire.
- Safety: Operates in a fully sealed box to prevent excess heat and fumes.
- Laser Power: About a million times more powerful than a standard laser pointer.
- Oversight: Managed remotely by microgravity researchers at CNES, Airbus, and ESA.
- Upcoming Tests and Analysis
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- Next Steps: Four shapes will be printed for full-scale testing.
- Comparison: These prints will be returned to Earth and compared with ground-based prints.
- Historical Context and Future Goals
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- Launch Details: The printer was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in January as part of an ISS resupply mission.
- NASA’s 3D Printing: In 2014, NASA used a plastic 3D printer on the ISS that created various tools.
- Logistical Benefits: 3D printing in space is seen as important for deep space exploration to reduce reliance on resupply missions.
- Environmental Impact and Circular Space Economy
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- Space Trash Reduction: ESA aims to reduce resupply missions and recycle materials in space using 3D printing.
- Circular Economy Goal: Repurpose old satellite parts into new tools and structures.