NASA is dipping its toes in the 3D-printing revolution pool, and it doesn't care who knows. Instead of using traditional assembly processes, the agency has used additive manufacturing to construct a rocket engine injector. This space-technology demonstration could reportedly lead to more efficient manufacturing -- specifically, saving American companies time and money.
Designed by Aerojet Rocketdyne, using a method that employed high-power laser beams to melt and fuse metallic powders, the team at NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio, tested the injector with high-pressure firings of liquid oxygen and gaseous hydrogen. The tests were successful, which means the team is ready to develop full-size 3D parts.
Compared to the usual manufacturing process, which traditionally takes more than a year, printing the injector via 3D-technology took less than four months; the 3D-printed model also cost NASA 70% less than its current iteration. Glenn and Aerojet Rocketdyne partnered on the project with the Air Force Research Laboratory at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
Watch the video above to learn more, and let us know what you think about NASA's development in the comments, below.
