For the first time scientists did 3D printing of metal part in space -lattestnews24

3D Printing in Space: Scientific experiments being conducted in space are achieving new heights every day. ESA i.e. European Space Agency has demonstrated 3D printing of a metal part in space for the first time. 3D printing in space is challenging because there is no gravity there. Due to this, the quality of printing can deteriorate. However, scientists have overcome this challenge and demonstrated a perfect 3D printing.

According to a Space.com report, 3D printing of metal parts requires melting the metal. Difficulties in printing in space without gravity were inevitable. To overcome these challenges, scientists set things up according to the conditions on the International Space Station (ISS).

Scientists conducted tests for several months and acclimatized the printer to the environment of micro gravity. After this, they prepared the first metal part in space with the help of 3D printing. The team plans to print 2 more things. The thing that has been printed now will be sent to Earth for quality check.

This is how 3D printing was done in space

Scientists melted a stainless steel wire using a laser at the International Space Station. A metal filament was prepared from it, which was used for 3D printing. The European Space Agency says that by 3D printing a metal part in space, scientists have achieved the capability of manufacturing in space. This will be helpful in future missions. Scientists believe that if needed in long distance space missions, they will be able to prepare spare parts and construction related items.

If the use of 3D printing becomes possible on a large scale in space, then scientists will not need to carry things from Earth. By taking the raw material to space, everything needed can be manufactured there.