MTC plans additive partnership with NASA for future space missions

The Coventry-based Manufacturing Technology Center (MTC) is developing a partnership with NASA as US space scientists seek to use technology developed by the center in future space missions.

The high-altitude link comes after the work done by the MTC for the European Space Agency (ESA). MTC hosts the ESA Reference Center for Additive Manufacturing.

US scientists from five NASA centers, including the Kennedy Space Center, have visited the MTC and are particularly interested in collaborating on projects involving the manufacture of complex and high-stress components through additive manufacturing or manufacturing. 3D printing. The MTC hosts the National Center for Additive Manufacturing and has the most complete combination of equipment and capabilities in Europe.

NASA is also interested in Catapult Center's work on certification and component standards, particularly those produced using advanced manufacturing techniques. TCM is one of the founding partners of the North American Manufacturing Agency's ASTM International Center of Manufacturing Excellence, alongside EWI, Auburn University and NASA. The two organizations also discuss other technologies, including robotic processing, high temperature alloys and ceramics.

MTC chief technician David Wimpenny said the link with NASA was very exciting and had huge potential: "NASA was communicated to us via our work with ASTM. Center of excellence of additive manufacturing and our existing links with the space sector, especially ESA. We could work together in many areas, including additive manufacturing, certification of AM printed parts and other manufactured parts, inspection technology for thin-walled light-weight parts, and testing at very high temperatures.

Rick Russell, NASA Technologist, added, "NASA's additive technology team is excited about the development of future collaboration opportunities. Our team was extremely impressed by the capabilities and staff of the MTC. Working with ESA, we plan to use MTC and the National Additive Manufacturing Center as part of our future collaborative efforts. "

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