An X-ray telescope designed to search for supermassive black holes could use a new type called plasma metal deposition3D printingTechnology to build. The ESA space telescope-which will also be used to map the structure of the hot gas and determine its physical characteristics-will be launched in 2033. As part of a project to evaluate whether plasma metal deposition technology can be used to help build the large structural components of the Athena Telescope, the Austrian company RHP Technology used the technology to manufacture six demonstration components.
These prototypes are a3D printingAnd the partially processed version may one day become the “eye” of the Athena telescope. Plasma metal deposition technology is also a candidate for the manufacture of large parts in the future, such as the optical table of the Athena telescope, which will align and fix approximately 600 mirror modules-this will be the largest part ever printed with titanium. The overall shape with a diameter of about 3 meters must be accurate to within a few tens of microns.
ESA materials engineer Laurent Pambaguian said: “We studied the entire process chain and3D printing, Use titanium alloy as metal powder or wire material. The results showed good mechanical properties and finishing, marking our ability to advance this technology, including research on alternative materials. “
RHP Technologies collaborated with two other Austrian companies to develop these prototypes: including AAC Aerospace and Advanced Composites; and FOTEC Forschungs und Technologietransfer.
Erich Neubauer, general manager of RHP Technologies, said: “Using traditional manufacturing methods, which are usually milling from blocks, more than 80% of the material is wasted. By using our plasma metal deposition technology, we can prove that Saved materials and costs.”
This work is supported by the ESA Space Solutions, which aims to support European entrepreneurs to use satellite applications and space technology to develop their businesses and improve their daily lives. Susanne Katzler Fuchs from Brimatech, ESA Space Solutions Technology Transfer Broker in Austria, said: “RHP proves that large 3D parts can be printed for space applications. In the future, this technology can be used for applications on Earth, such as industrial, Aviation or automotive applications.”
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