3D-Printed Rocket Engine
Source: Live Mint
GS III: Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights
Overview
- News in Brief
- About 3D-Printed Rocket Engine
Why in the News?
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marked another achievement to its list of success stories on Friday, May 10, by successfully conducting a hot test of a liquid rocket engine created with Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology also known in common language as 3D printing.
News in Brief
- This engine is a vital component of the launch vehicle and plays a crucial role in manoeuvring the spacecraft during the initial stages of the mission.
- The test was conducted at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
- The complex is responsible for the development and testing of rocket engines and propulsion systems for India’s space program.
- The PS4 engine was put through a series of rigorous tests to evaluate its performance, reliability, and safety.
- The data collected from the test will be analyzed to improve the engine’s design and performance for future missions.
About 3D-Printed Rocket Engine
- The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has recently conducted a test of the PS4 engine that powers the Reaction Control System (RCS) of the upper stage (PS1) of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
- The RCS plays a critical role in the PSLV’s trajectory and helps orient, position, and stabilise the spacecraft during different phases of the mission.
- ISRO confirmed that the same engine is also used in the Reaction Control System (RCS) of the first stage (PS1) of PSLV.
- The new engine now saves 97 per cent of raw materials and reduces production time by 60 per cent.
3D Printing Technology
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has revolutionized various industries by enabling the creation of three-dimensional objects from digital models. This technology builds objects layer by layer, offering unprecedented flexibility and customization possibilities. Let’s delve into some key facts and figures about 3D printing:
- Growth and Market Size
- The 3D printing industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years.
- According to a report by Grand View Research, the global 3D printing market size was valued at USD 13.78 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 62.79 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 20.4% during the forecast period.
- Applications
- 3D printing finds applications across various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, consumer goods, and education.
- In aerospace, for instance, companies are leveraging 3D printing to manufacture lightweight, complex aircraft components, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
- Materials
- Many materials can be used in 3D printing, including plastics, metals, ceramics, and composites.
- Each material offers unique properties, allowing for the production of parts with specific mechanical, thermal, or aesthetic characteristics.
- Customization and Prototyping
- One of the most significant advantages of 3D printing is its ability to produce highly customized and prototype parts quickly and cost-effectively.
- This capability is particularly beneficial in industries like healthcare, where personalized medical implants and prosthetics can be tailored to individual patients.
- Sustainability
- 3D printing can contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing material waste compared to traditional manufacturing methods.
- Additive manufacturing only uses the material necessary for building the object, minimizing scrap and optimizing resource utilization.
- Challenges
- Despite its numerous advantages, 3D printing also faces challenges such as limited material selection for certain applications, slow production speeds for large-scale manufacturing, and the need for skilled operators to ensure quality and reliability.
Daily Current Affairs: Click Here
Rate this Article and Leave a Feedback
Today’s Current Affair content is meticulously crafted to align the topic with the syllabus of Civil Service and various other examinations. Join our community of aspirants and embark on a journey of knowledge, growth, and success with IAS Current Affairs. Let’s stay ahead together in the ever-evolving landscape of competitive examinations and the latest current affairs!