"Forging the Future: 3D Printing's Cosmic Revolution in Space Manufacturing" : Part 2

Matthew Zaino
Oct 11, 2023
2 min read

By Matt. Z

10/11/23

For the second article of this three-part series on Additive Manufacturing in the Space Industry, we will talk about creating the first 3D print and the tireless work it took to make this a reality.

In a remarkable exploration of the potential of 3D printing in space, co-investigator Tracie Prater, a materials engineer at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), has shed light on the groundbreaking developments achieved thus far. Her work and others have unveiled a captivating hypothesis: microgravity exerts no significant influence on a particular 3D printing process, marking a significant leap forward in space-based manufacturing.

The journey commenced with introducing the Additive Manufacturing Facility (AMF) by Made in Space, a technological marvel capable of utilizing diverse materials, including engineered plastics. To further investigate the capabilities of 3D printing in space, the AMF-ABS Design Values investigation was launched. This initiative aimed to produce parts aboard the space station for a side-by-side comparison with their Earth-manufactured counterparts.

Prater offers insights into this pioneering adventure, explaining that they embarked on a distinct testing approach. Their focus extended to analyzing the influence of filament layup on the properties and consistency of the resulting parts. Challenges were encountered, such as the need for standardized testing procedures for 3D-printed materials. However, organizations like NASA are actively working on developing such standards to ensure the reliability of these cutting-edge manufacturing processes.

A significant milestone was achieved with the production of a wrench during the "3-D Printing in Zero-G" investigation, showcasing the ability to transmit a design from Earth to a manufacturing system remotely situated more than 200 miles above our planet. Beyond mere tests, the AMF has brought forth a multitude of functional items, including an antenna component, an adapter to secure a probe within an air outlet on the space station's oxygen generation system, and a component to connect two SPHERES, which are free-flying robots employed for research within the space station.

One of the most promising aspects of this technological advancement is the prospect of recycling materials for 3D printing feedstock. This innovation could spare long-duration exploration missions the need to transport large quantities of raw materials for 3D printing. Additionally, recycling could provide a sustainable solution for materials that might otherwise become waste or pose disposal challenges during these missions. The ReFabricator investigation, operational on the space station since February 2019, represents a significant stride towards this goal. Tethers Unlimited developed this technology to recycle waste plastic materials, including previously printed items, into high-quality 3D printer filament.

The future of manufacturing in space is undoubtedly undergoing a profound transformation as 3D printing technology continues to demonstrate its incredible potential. These endeavors not only expand our horizons in space exploration but also promise sustainable and efficient solutions for the challenges that lie ahead.

Keywords: Additive Manufacturing, 3D Printing, Tracie Prater, Made In Space, NASA, Recycling, Eco- Friendly

Should NASA be the one leading the technology in 3D printing or should it be a Privatized Company?