- 3D Systems (DDD, Financial) collaborates with notable universities and NASA to develop advanced thermal management solutions.
- Innovations include titanium heat pipe radiators and nitinol shape memory alloy radiators, reducing weight and enhancing efficiency.
- The aerospace additive manufacturing market is projected to reach $3.8 billion by 2030.
3D Systems (DDD) has announced collaborations with Penn State University and Arizona State University on NASA-sponsored projects aimed at developing cutting-edge thermal management solutions for spacecraft. Utilizing 3D Systems' Direct Metal Printing technology and Oqton's 3DXpert software, the teams have successfully engineered innovative heat pipe radiators. These include titanium radiators that are 50% lighter and can operate at temperatures up to 230°C, alongside the first additively manufactured shape memory alloy radiators made from nitinol, which boast a 6× larger deployed-to-stowed area ratio compared to current solutions.
These advancements are critical in managing the severe temperature fluctuations in space, thereby preventing component damage and extending satellite lifespans. Additive manufacturing, key to these innovations, is projected to propel the global aerospace market to $3.8 billion by 2030. 3D Systems has already established a significant footprint in this sector, contributing to over 2,000 structural components and 200 RF flight parts, showcasing its pivotal role in advancing thermal management technologies.
