Click the blue text to follow“CCTV News”
On the 5th of this month, the
Long March 5B carrier rocket successfully completed its maiden flight
carrying China’s new generation manned spacecraft test vehicle
which also included a“3D printer”
This is China’s first space 3D printing experiment
and also the first time in the world
to conduct a 3D printing experiment of continuous fiber reinforced composite materials
China Successfully Completes First Space ‘3D Printing’
The printed objects included two items: a honeycomb structure (representing lightweight structures for spacecraft) and the CASC (China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation) logo.
Researchers installed this independently developed “composite material space 3D printing system” in the test vehicle’s return capsule. During the flight, the system autonomously completed the printing of sample parts made from continuous fiber reinforced composite materials, verifying the scientific experimental objectives of 3D printing composites in a microgravity environment.
It is understood that continuous fiber reinforced composite materials are the main materials for spacecraft structures both domestically and internationally, characterized by low density and high strength. Researching the technology of space 3D printing of composites is of great significance for the long-term operation of space stations and the development of large-scale structures in orbit.
Qi Junfeng, head of the composite material space 3D printing system at the Fifth Academy of Aerospace Science and Technology Group:
The first goal is to support the long-term operation and maintenance of the space station with human care. If we have the capability to manufacture items in the space station, we can achieve on-demand manufacturing; the second goal is to support the expansion of our space station in orbit.
More News
- The night sky at an altitude of 5200 meters, where one can almost reach the stars, is spectacular!
Supervised by Li Zhe, Chief Editor: Misha
Edited by Yang Huijun
© CCTV News
Long press the QR code on the left
Follow CCTV News
Click “View” to cheer for Chinese aerospace!↓↓↓