Momentus has developed an additively manufactured fuel tank in collaboration with Velo3D.
The fuel tank is scheduled to perform flight testing aboard Momentus’s Vigoride-7 Orbital Service Vehicle.
Using additive manufacturing, a series of complex geometries that 'would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods' is said to improve performance. The application of the technology is also understood to have reduced production timelines.
Following the testing of the fuel tank on Vigoride-7, Momentus plans to further apply additive manufacturing technology to serve new markets as a qualified supplier for space-rated fuel tanks that typically are high-cost and require long lead times.
“Testing an additively manufactured fuel tank on Vigoride-7 is a major achievement for Momentus and a testament to the strength of our partnership with Velo3D,” said John Rood, CEO of Momentus. “Additive manufacturing opens new possibilities for spacecraft design and production, and this successful demonstration paves the way for broader adoption across our future missions.”
“Momentus is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space transportation, and we’re proud to support their vision with our technology,” added Arun Jeldi, CEO of Velo3D. “Our additive manufacturing platform enables aerospace innovators to design without compromise, and this fuel tank is a perfect example of how advanced manufacturing can deliver performance and reliability in space.”
Momentus plans to utilise this technology to serve new markets as a qualified supplier for space-rated fuel tanks that are typically high-cost and require long lead times.
