China has successfully manufactured complete metal components under microgravity conditions in space for the first time
According to information obtained by reporters from the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, a scientific experimental payload for microgravity laser additive manufacturing developed by the institute was carried by the "Lihong No.1" remote flight vehicle into the suborbital, achieving the first space laser wire melting metal additive manufacturing.
The experimental system has broken through key technologies such as forming and control of metal additive manufacturing under microgravity conditions, full-process closed-loop control, and high-reliability collaboration between the payload and rocket. After the experiment, the payload compartment landed smoothly via a parachute system and was successfully recovered, successfully obtaining metal components, all data, and forming performance parameters of metal additive manufacturing in the microgravity environment of space.
Space metal additive manufacturing (i.e., space metal 3D printing) is regarded as a key enabling technology for future space missions. This technology can enable rapid in-orbit manufacturing and autonomous repair of spacecraft components, significantly reducing reliance on ground supplies, and enhancing the flexibility and sustainability of deep space exploration, long-term operation of space stations, and lunar base construction.
The research team has gradually established the basic theoretical framework and process database for space metal manufacturing through experimental systems such as microgravity drop towers, parabolic flights, suborbital rockets, and on-orbit platforms.
Source: CCTV News Client
Original: toutiao.com/article/1855022088590729/
Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.