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> The Prometheus program is making extensive use of new technologies and production methods, including 3-D printing [...] Mmmh... Since when is 3D printing a p
by frabert 9y ago
> The Prometheus program is making extensive use of new technologies and production methods, including 3-D printing [...]
Mmmh... Since when is 3D printing a production method instead of a prototyping one? I'm kind of annoyed that people feel the need that something is MADE WITH 3D PRINTERS!!! in everything nowadays. I can't see how cheap ABS / PLA plastic would fit in a rocket engine.
- mikeash 9y agoIndustrial 3D metal printing is a real thing. SpaceX is using it for parts of their Super Draco engines.
- bsder 9y ago> Since when is 3D printing a production method instead of a prototyping one? When you have horrifically expensive, complicated, low-volume parts. In addition, 3D printing can do some amazing things for things that have weird liquid flows (like rocket engines) because they don't have any seams when printed vs machined/stamped/cast.
- toomanybeersies 9y agoAirbus 3d prints titanium parts for its production aircraft [0]. It's cheaper than subtractive manufacturing, as there's no material wastage. You can 3d print metal, ceramics, or plastic. You can 3d print practically anything, not just plastic. [0]: http://www.airbus.com/newsroom/press-releases/en/2017/09/first-titanium-3d-printed-part-installed-into-serial-production-.html http://www.airbus.com/newsroom/press-releases/en/2017/09/fir...
- gozur88 9y agoYou can print parts with geometries that would be very expensive or even impossible to machine.