Transforming Rocket Engine Manufacturing With Metal 3D Printing
Manufacturing rocket components demands materials that can withstand extreme temperatures and stresses while maintaining lightweight construction. Traditional methods for creating complex parts like thrust chambers are not only costly but also time-consuming, taking up to six months for production.
... System: SLM®280 2.0 ... System: SLM®280 PS
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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.

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