New division offers 3D printing for aerospace applications with MarkForged X7 printers and OnyxFR-A material.
When it comes to engineering for space-based applications, every ounce counts.
The amount of energy—and hence fuel—needed to get payloads into orbit and beyond means that any reduction in weight without a commensurate reduction in performance is worthwhile. For this reason, there has been growing interest and investment in 3D printing for space-based applications over the past decade.
The latest instance comes from Cape Canaveral-based Sidus Space, which provides data, engineering and manufacturing services to the space industry. The company recently unveiled a new multi-material 3D printing division, built around Markforged’s X7 3D printers and OnyxFR-A material. Sidus has already used these to produce structural support components for the LizzieSat[MB1] satellite, a multi-mission satellite platform which is scheduled to launch in March of this year.
OnyxFR-A is a flame-retardant variant of Markforged’s Onyx, a carbon fiber filled nylon which can be reinforced with continuous fiber materials. According to the company, the composite base is considered V-0 (self-extinguishing) at thicknesses greater than or equal to 3mm. According to Sidus Space, structural support components produced for the LizzieSat using OnyxFR-A reinforced with carbon fiber were both stronger and lighter than their aluminum counterparts.
On the basis of this outcome, Sidus Space is aiming to extend its offerings to a broader market through a digital warehouse database of part information. The idea is to give customers the ability to 3D print their own manufacturer-approved digital parts—another advantage of additive manufacturing.
The new multi-material 3D printing division specializes in composite materials, including Nylon Onyx, Onyx FR-A, carbon fiber, fiberglass and Kevlar. Additionally, the company offers 3D printing in PLA and TPU materials.
“Expanding our services to include multi-material 3D printing is a natural progression for Sidus Space. We are excited to offer our advanced capabilities to a wider audience, providing innovative solutions for various industries,” said Carol Craig, CEO and founder of Sidus Space in a press release.
Multi-material 3D printing and satellite manufacturing both operate on the cutting-edge of engineering. With the number of satellites just in low Earth orbit expected to increase nearly tenfold over the next five years, there’s sure to be no shortage of demand for the kind of innovative designs and material options that 3D printing offers over traditional manufacturing processes.
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