Velo3D and Launcher Expand Collaboration on Manufacture of Parts for High-Performance Liquid Rocket Engine
A rocket developer, Launcher (Hawthorne, CA) has added a second Velo3D additive manufacturing (AM) system so it can 3D print pressure vessels for Orbiter, an orbital transfer vehicle and satellite platform.
Posted: September 18, 2021
This second Velo3D system can 3D print with titanium. Velo3D Inc. (Campbell, CA) makes 3D printers for high-value metal parts. Launcher develops high-performance rockets for small satellites.
Previously, at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, Launcher successfully tested its liquid-oxygen turbopump for its high-performance, closed-cycle liquid rocket engine. Subsequently, Launcher started working with Velo3D to 3D print its fuel pump, flight turbine housing parts, and Orbiter pressure vessels. The pressure vessels would be manufactured with the second Velo3D AM system for metal parts.
“Velo3D really delivered on our turbopump, including its 3D-printed rotating impeller, all of which functioned perfectly the very first time at 30,000 rpm, using the first prototype,” said Max Haot, founder and CEO of Launcher.
“Rocket engine turbopump parts typically require casting, forging, and welding. Tooling required for these processes increases the cost of development and reduces flexibility between design iterations. The ability to 3D print our turbopump—including rotating Inconel shrouded impellers, thanks to Velo3D’s zero-degree technology—makes it possible now at a lower cost and increased innovation through iteration between each prototype.”
Founded in 2017, Launcher is an emerging-technology company that develops efficient rockets for delivering small satellites into orbit. Orbiter is the third stage of the company’s Launcher Light rocket. The rocket is designed to carry payloads of up to 150 kg (330 lbs.) to low-earth orbit, using a single E-2 engine. Launcher Light is a low-cost, responsive, dedicated launch vehicle for small satellites. A first launch is scheduled for 2024.
“We’re very excited about working with innovative companies like Launcher,” said Benny Buller, founder and CEO of Velo3D. “Not only have they already proven out the value and experienced the quality of advanced metal AM through current projects, they understand the potential that this technology holds for expanding the success of their out-of-this-world enterprise.”
