NASA Tests 3D-Printed Rocket Part

January 5, 2018

Engineers successfully hot-fire-tested an RS-25 rocket engine with a large 3D-printed part for the first time, marking a key step toward reducing costs for future engines that power NASA’s new heavy-lift rocket, the Space Launch System.

The part is a beachball-sized piece of hardware that acts as a shock absorber by regulating liquid oxygen movement in the engine to prevent the vibrations that can destabilize a rocket’s flight. Initial reports show the 3D-printed hardware performed as expected, opening the door for more components scheduled for future tests.

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