How MIT is Pushing the Boundaries of AM Research in Space

The space industry could be the next trillion-dollar industry due to the vast technological advancements of the last decade. In this third episode of our four-part series, we discuss how even though AM lends itself perfectly to space applications, the rapid advancements in materials post-processing and the capabilities of engineers working on them will continuously accelerate the development of more efficient engines, reusable components, and completely new designs.

Host Fabian Alefeld is joined by Zach Cordero, MIT professor where he leads the MIT aerospace materials and structures laboratory and started a class for aeronautic engineers on additive manufacturing. Zach’s research spans from investigating new materials, specifically designed for additive to post-processing technologies that have the true potential to change material properties that are required for the most demanding applications in space, as well as aviation. 

We recommend you start with episode 1 of this 4-part miniseries to get a better understanding of the current state of AM in the space industry.

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

Key Takeaways:

[2:09] Zach created his one-week crash course at MIT, to fill the need for workforce development of highly trained engineers.

[4:32] Zach explains the three main impact factors that make am perfect for the space industry.

[10:04] There are opportunities to develop new materials, but only two that offer economic gain to the developer. 

[13:16] Why Zach believes the space industry will benefit when additional design engineers enter the AM space.

[20:28] The future of post-processing in aerospace.