These days it seems that 3D printing can be found in every industry, and now it’s even in space. On November 24th, 2014 Made In Space successfully 3D printed the first part at the International Space Station (ISS). Although in the past, parts have been 3D printed on Earth and then sent to space, this was the first time a part was manufactured in space. This printing marks a milestone in the technology which could make it possible to easily print replacement parts for the ISS.
More research must now be conducted on the parts that were printed in space to ensure they are of the same quality as those printed on Earth. A control group was printed on Earth and the parts printed in space will be sent back to Earth to undergo tensile strength, torque, and flexibility testing. These tests will help the Made In Space team make adjustments on its second 3D printer, which it plans to send to the ISS early in 2015.
At Mark-10 we offer a range of force and torque measurement products, ideal for numerous applications in the aerospace industry, as well as others. Whether measuring tensile force and torque for 3D printed parts, or a virtually limitless number of applications in virtually every industry, Mark-10’s modular product platform can be used by quality control, research, and engineering professionals here on Earth, and perhaps one day, beyond. To learn more, visit our website and be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more company updates and industry news.
