Wire Arc Additive manufacturing of near net shapes for Spacecraft propellant tanks

Airbus defence and Space, in conjunction with Cranfield University and the AMRC catapult centre in Sheffield, are developing satellite propulsion components using a new additive manufacturing process. The process can use various materials such as aluminium, titanium , steels and variety of other alloys.

The aim is to reduce lead times and costs for it's Telecommunication and Science mission spacecraft. This novel development will maintain a UK capability for these high value components that otherwise would have to be imported.