A test segment of a launch interface ring - used to secure a satellite in place during its flight to orbit - produced by 3D printing of aluminum-magnesium-scandium alloy by laser melting deposition. It was made as part of an ESA project to improve this technique.

The Launch Interface Rings by Additive Manufacturing, LIRAM project took place with Belgian companies Sonaca, CRM and SIRRIS, supported through ESA's General Support Technology Programme, readying promising technology for space and the open market, as part of ESA's Advanced Manufacturing initiative.

As a follow-up, the production of a complete launch interface ring is planned for 2023.

Related Links
LIRAM project at ESA
Space Technology News - Applications and Research

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Rocket engine 3D parts survive 23 hot-fire tests
Huntsville AL (SPX) Dec 09, 2020
Future lunar landers might come equipped with 3D printed rocket engine parts that help bring down overall manufacturing costs and reduce production time. NASA is investing in advanced manufacturing - one of five industries of the future - to make it possible. Through a series of hot-fire tests in November, NASA demonstrated that two additively manufactured engine components - a copper alloy combustion chamber and nozzle made of a high-strength hydrogen resistant alloy - could withstand the same ex ... read more