ESA calls for part concepts to demonstrate in-space AM
February 15, 2022
As part of its extended contract with Airbus Defence and Space SAS, Toulouse, France, the European Space Agency (ESA) has issued a call for ideas for specimens to be additively manufactured aboard the ISS in 2023. Using the Metal 3D Printer Technology Demonstrator (Metal 3D TD), the parts will be used to help determine the feasibility, performance and operation of in-space AM capability for small metal parts.
The concept submissions should be no larger than 5 cm in diameter, 9 cm in height and 200 g. The parts will be manufactured using stainless steel 316L. Full requirements and constraints for the metal AM machine are available here.
The winning designs will be jointly selected by the Danish ESA delegation and the ESA. After the flight has returned to earth, the concept designers will have access to the part.
Deadline for the submission of ideas is March 15, 2022.
Submission forms are available here.
