Aerospace company Orbex at the opening of their new headquarters and rocket design facility in Forres, Scotland, has unveiled the world’s largest 3D printed rocket engine.
Called Prime, the two-stage rocket prototype is described as being “completely re-thought and re-engineered”.
Using the SLM800 metal 3D printer of the German additive manufacturing company SLM Solutions, the rocket is manufactured as a single piece. Without joins, the engine is able to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures without succumbing to weakness traditionally associated with welding.
“The SLM Solutions team showed true dedication and in-depth knowledge of our work,” said Chief Technology Officer of Orbex, Jonas Bjarnoe. “I’m looking forward to continuing this collaboration in 2019 and onwards. Orbex and SLM Solutions have solved some important puzzle pieces which will change the space business”.
Designed to run on bio-propane, the rocket produces 90% less CO2 than fossil hydrocarbon fueled rockets. It is also 30% lighter in weight and 20% more efficient than other launchers in its class.
Set to launch an experimental payload of UK-based Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTL) on its maiden flight in 2021, 10 nanosatellites from Switzerland’s Astrocast SA is also planned to launch in 2023 in order to build a global Internet of Things (IoT) network.
“Orbex’s new rocket design facility brings Britain one step closer to having its own domestic commercial launch capability and firmly positions the UK as Europe’s frontrunner for those looking to Earth’s orbit and beyond for new opportunities,” said Graham Turnock, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency.
“Since the announcement in July 2018 that we had been chosen to launch from the Sutherland spaceport, Orbex has been on an incredible journey, largely behind-the scenes,” said Chris Larmour, Orbex CEO. “That is changing today, as we publicly reveal the company’s technical and commercial momentum. Not only do we have a full engineering prototype of the complete Stage 2 of the Prime rocket, but also a growing roster of customers hoping to be among the first to launch satellites from Scotland.”
“Today Orbex has taken some big strides forward, creating something unique in Europe – a well-funded, private micro-launch solution supported by excellent facilities, strong industrial partners and an expanding line-up of commercial customers”, added Larmour. “There are only a handful of private launcher companies globally that have practical experience in the design and production of micro-launch vehicles, and even fewer that have combined those skills with sufficient funding and the commercial contracts to execute on their plans.”
To learn more, click the link below.
https://orbex.space/assets/uploads/documents/Forres-launch-press-release-FINAL-no-embargo-notice.pdf
