How SpaceX's $8 Million Investment in 3D Printing Could Revolutionize Rocket Manufacturing

Introduction

• SpaceX partners with Velo3D in an $8 million 3D printing deal.
• Reflects the growing role of Additive Manufacturing (AM) in aerospace.
• Aims to enhance engine production, streamline manufacturing, and accelerate mission timelines.

Additive Manufacturing in Rocket and Engine Production

• Impact of AM in Aerospace
  • Creates complex, high-performance, lighter, and more robust components.
  • Allows intricate designs at reduced time and cost versus traditional methods.
• Advantages in Rocket Engine Development
  • Used in SpaceX's Raptor engines for parts like combustion chambers and turbo pumps.
  • Reduces components and potential failure points.
  • Enhances design iteration speed and development process.

The Strategic $8 Million Collaboration

• Details of the Agreement
  • Non-exclusive $8 million licensing deal.
  • $5 million for Velo3D’s metal AM technology; $3 million for engineering support.
  • Velo3D's Sapphire printers crucial to the partnership.
• Flexibility and Future Access
  • SpaceX gains access to Velo3D’s improvements over 12 months.
  • Permission to modify and use technology for internal purposes.

Technological and Operational Advantages

• Velo3D’s Sapphire Systems
  • Handles intricate geometries for components enduring rocket propulsion conditions.
  • Compatible with copper-based alloys like GRCop-42.
• Operational Benefits
  • Non-contact recoating technology enhances build reliability, reduces post-processing.
  • Streamlines manufacturing, cuts costs, and production times while maintaining quality.

Velo3D’s Financial Implications

• Financial Boost and Market Position
  • Helps stabilize Velo3D post-delisting from NYSE.
  • Potential to attract more aerospace contracts.
  • Reinforces reputation as a leader in metal AM.

Future of Additive Manufacturing in Space Exploration

• Potential and Benefits
  • Critical enabler for space exploration and on-demand complex part production.
  • Could reduce reliance on Earth-bound manufacturing for long-duration missions.
• Industry Trends
  • Other companies, like Relativity Space, exploring 3D printing for rockets.
  • AM vital for cost reduction, efficiency, and spacecraft production acceleration.

Conclusion

• SpaceX and Velo3D partnership highlights AM’s growing importance in aerospace.
• Anticipated breakthroughs in materials and methods in AM.
• AM poised to be integral in future space exploration efforts.

Sources

• 3D Printing Industry
• Metal AM
• Voxel Matters
• 3DPrint