NASA has developed a high-tech 3D-printed rocket engine turbopump that is believed to be "one of the most complex, 3D-printed rocket engine parts ever made". Manufactured and tested at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, this pump was designed by both Marshall engineers and external vendors.
This turbopump is capable of operating at well over 90,000 revolutions per minute and generating over 1,500 Kilowatt-hours while pumping 4,500 liters of cryogenic liquid hydrogen per minute. Interestingly, this pump uses 45 per cent fewer parts than conventional pumps, due to the many advantages of 3D printing.
NASA is looking to encourage further development of turbopump designs by making the engine designs and testing data open to American companies interested in working on future space engines.
3D-Printed Turbopumps
This NASA Turbopump Includes a Turbine That Spins At 90,000 Revs Per Minute
Trend Themes
1. 3d-printed Rocket Engine Parts - The development of 3D-printed rocket engine parts opens up opportunities for more complex designs and streamlined manufacturing processes.
2. Advanced Turbopump Technology - The creation of high-tech turbopumps that operate at extremely high speeds and with increased efficiency presents disruptive innovation opportunities for the aerospace industry.
3. Open Source Engine Designs - The open availability of engine designs and testing data encourages collaboration and innovation among American companies interested in developing future space engines.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - The aerospace industry can explore the use of 3D-printed rocket engine parts and advanced turbopump technology to improve performance and efficiency of space missions.
2. Manufacturing - The manufacturing industry can leverage the advantages of 3D printing technology to prototype and produce complex components like turbopumps with reduced parts and streamlined processes.
3. Engineering - The engineering industry can contribute to the development of innovative turbopump designs by utilizing open-source engine designs and testing data provided by NASA.