Vector Space Systems flight-tests model of satellite-launch vehicle using 3-D printed part
NewsMay 04, 2017
TUCSON, Ariz. Vector Space Systems has announced a successful test launch of the P-19H engineering model of its Vector-R launch vehicle, the initial flight of several upcoming launches that will enable Vector to evaluate critical technologies and functions of its family of Vector launch vehicles.
Vector -- a microsatellite space launch company made up of veterans of space and software industry companies SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, McDonnell Douglas, Sea Launch, and VMware -- tested the first stage of its 5K-lbf engine and 3-D additive manufacturing printed injector, developed in partnership with NASA's Flight Opportunities Program.
Components produced using 3-D additive manufacturing technology (commonly known as 3-D printing) do not need assembly because they are built in a single piece. In contrast, traditional manufacturing uses a machine to produce multiple parts, which workers then must assemble. According to the company, this new way of manufacturing technology will reduce both cost and labor, as well as cut down on wasted raw material; it will also improve quality issues such as the alignment of parts.
John Peugeot, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center project manager for 3D Additive Manufacturing (AM), said of the test: "With this successful in-flight operation of an additively manufactured injector, we have now moved the maturity of this technology to the next level for small launch vehicles. This represents a critical step in moving AM hardware beyond laboratory testing and toward qualification for real-world applications."
The flight test was held in Mojave, California, on May 3,
