3D printing has gradually been making its way into the manufacturing and fabrication of end-use, functional components and parts. Previously thought of as merely a technology for prototyping, and having been around for decades for this cause, only recently has the technology been considered for the creation of custom, functioning parts that actually serve a purpose.
3D printing has allowed Rocket Lab’s team of engineers to manufacture an engine that is very lightweight, as well as greatly reducing the required build time. More traditional manufacturing methods can not come close to the ability that 3D printing has provided in making such lightweight parts, and the build time has been decreased from months to just days, using this technology.
“Historically, the time and expense to launch small satellites have been prohibitive, costing many millions of dollars and requiring endless patience and flexibility waiting for months to ‘hitch a ride’ to space,” explained Peter Beck, CEO of Rocket Lab. “With Electron, companies can launch whenever they would like, at a substantially more affordable cost. This monumental advancement in space technology gives satellite-reliant businesses the freedom they have been waiting for, which will lead to vast improvements in how we use satellite technology in space.”
“Although the privatization of the space industry has promised an easier path to commercial launches, space has remained an incredibly difficult and expensive place to reach,” explained Beck. “Electron makes it possible for us to continue to execute on our vision to enable easier access to space. As more small satellite companies are able to quickly reach orbit, we will see immense advancements in communication and imaging technologies, which has the potential to drastically change our world – from improved traffic reporting to crop planning to even mitigating the life-threatening damages of natural disasters.”
Electron measures just 20 meters in length and has a diameter of 1 meter, with a lift-off mass of 10,500 kg. A dedicated launch will cost customers $4.9 million, and only requires a lead time of a few weeks. What do you think about this incredible battery-powered Rutherford rocket engine? Discuss in the Rocket Labs forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out the video below.