IMPROVED FUNCTION COOLING THROUGH INTEGRATED LATTICE

CellCore and Nikon SLM Solutions teamed up to revolutionize the production of rocket engines. By utilizing Nikon SLM® technology, they integrated cooling ducts directly into the combustion chamber wall, producing the entire thrust chamber and injector in a single build. This additive manufacturing process, completed in under five days, dramatically reduces production time while optimizing the engine’s functionality.

Key Improvements Include:

• Innovative Cooling Design: The integrated cooling ducts, formed through selective laser melting, offer superior heat management and structural stability compared to traditional right-angled ducts.
• Enhanced Efficiency: The single-piece design combines multiple components into one, reducing weight and minimizing post-processing, leading to significant cost savings.
• Material Excellence: The engine was crafted from IN718, a nickel superalloy known for its exceptional strength at high temperatures. Additive manufacturing simplifies the machining of this difficult-to-process material, reducing tool wear and production costs.

With Nikon SLM® technology, CellCore significantly improved the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and performance of rocket engine components. This breakthrough offers aerospace companies the opportunity to innovate faster and stay ahead in a competitive industry. Download the full case study to learn more.