Sure does. Quite a few people here in the forum are doing their own part printing. 3d printed parts of many kinds and even complete 3d printed rocket kits are available.I did a Toastmasters speech on this new technology.
Does it have any application in amateur rocketry?
Is this correct? I haven't seen anyone else say this. It seems like a strange choice given the conditions at that end of a burning motor.AeroTech DMS motors now use 3D printed thrust rings.
Yes layer adhesion is very important, I am not a proponent of using 3D printed objects for structural parts of a HPR rocket. However there are many ways to use 3D printed parts in building a rocket, I do use 3D printed sleds in my AV-bays in HPR and nose cones of MPR rockets.Wasn't there an incident with a 3D printed rocket at NSL this year?
I think its a great prototyping tool. It just has its own quirks and design factors to incorporate (like z-axis lamination)
Two words for that picture: Awe. Some.
Yep, I have seen them myself. Apparently they've been tested quite extensively. All the 29-54mm motors have them (don't know about the larger ones). Looks like they're on the RCS site as well: https://www.rocketmotorparts.com/Thrust_Rings/cat1577810_2125751.aspxIs this correct? I haven't seen anyone else say this. It seems like a strange choice given the conditions at that end of a burning motor.
Interesting. I have only flown one DMS motor and it used the old paper thrust ring.Yep, I have seen them myself. Apparently they've been tested quite extensively. All the 29-54mm motors have them (don't know about the larger ones). Looks like they're on the RCS site as well: https://www.rocketmotorparts.com/Thrust_Rings/cat1577810_2125751.aspx
Nice!I am in the process of building a Nike Apache and have made use of 3D printing for the NC (4"), payload bay transition (3"-4") and interfin spacers (scale detail and camera mounts) on the Apache.
Like a previous post its all about the application, knowing your process and engineering.
I use PLA (!) ejection charge holders. 3 flights so far, no problems, 3g+ charges.
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That is surprising. Short duration must be the reason.I've been wondering if anybody had tried that, apparently the temperature and pressure of the BP charge isn't enough to compromise the structural integrity of the wells. Good to know...
In testing (on the ground) the piece was just barely warm after firing, not much heat gets transferred to the charge well.That is surprising. Short duration must be the reason.
Oh good, it is ABS. If it's ABS you can sand the pieces so the dust fills the cracks then wipe the it with acetone to dissolve and solidify it smooth.I use 3d printed parts in my RSR Kits that Apogee is currently selling. The plastic is ABS which is strong and somewhat light weight.
I have not tried the acetone treatment yet.Acetone processing is one reason to like ABS.