Researchers outline pivotal role of numerical simulation for in-space metal Additive Manufacturing
September 17, 2024
Researchers from the Department of Earth and Space Science and Engineering and the Department of Mechanical Engineering at York University, Toronto, Canada, recently published a study focused on laser-based metal Additive Manufacturing in space. The paper, published in Acta Astronautica, highlights the role of numerical simulations in lieu of in situ experiments.
Numerical simulations are vital, cost-effective tools for predicting component quality, enhancing reliability, and optimising manufacturing parameters in space-based Additive Manufacturing. By addressing the unique challenges of space manufacturing, the researchers believe that metal AM holds the promise to revolutionise space missions, reducing development time and costs whilst still fulfilling the stringent requirements of the space industry.
Whilst Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) Additive Manufacturing has become the predominant technique aboard the International Space Station, showing results in polymeric materials, metal AM in space is still in its infancy. In fact, the first metal component was additively manufactured aboard the ISS in June 2024.
Looking forward, the researchers believe that addressing the existing challenges related to material properties, process safety, and equipment adaptation to microgravity is imperative. Continued advances in this area are expected to significantly expand the scope of in-space manufacturing, potentially enabling more ambitious missions and sustained presence in outer space.
Integrating advanced simulation models and exploring a range of Additive Manufacturing technologies will be vital in overcoming these barriers and fully harnessing the potential of AM for space applications.
“A comprehensive review on metal laser Additive Manufacturing in space: Modeling and perspectives” is available here, in full.
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