Relativity Space, a rocket factory and launch services provider for satellites and 6K, a developer of microwave plasma technology for producing advanced materials used in additive manufacturing (AM), are partnering to prove sustainability in AM production. The partnership is intended to create a closed-loop supply chain where certified scrap materials produced at Relativity are turned into powder by 6K, which can then be reprinted by Relativity. The two companies will also explore new materials created specifically for rocket manufacturing and space travel.
As part of the collaboration, the two companies have signed an agreement detailing a three-phase approach from a proof of concept all the way through a Relativity printed part. The project will prove out the process of taking scrap material produced directly at Relativity, using 6K’s UniMelt process to deliver premium certified powder to a final printed part suitable for Relativity’s production. Working with the 6K process ensures Relativity will have complete line of sight and control of their supply chain while ensuring certified AM chemistry for production parts that are suitable for the rigors of a rocket launch and space travel.
“Relativity is completely reimagining the aerospace supply chain, by creating an autonomous robotic factory that can additively manufacture a rocket in 60 days. This partnering with 6K will add another important element to our unique approach: the ability to reuse materials,” said Tim Ellis, CEO of Relativity.
Dr. Aaron Bent, CEO of 6K added, “Relativity is pushing the boundaries of additive manufacturing by 3D printing a complete rocket ... Our ability to turn their used powder and parts into premium powder through the UniMelt process provides them with a sustainable source for AM powder. We are proud to be partnering with Relativity to explore ways to increase sustainability, recycling, and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.”
Both organizations see sustainability as a key requirement for production. Creating high-quality additive powders from something that was previously viewed as machine scrap showcases that the process significantly contributes to a circular economy.
6K’s UniMelt microwave plasma process can convert certified-chemistry machined millings, turnings, and other recycled feedstock sources into premium AM-ready metal powder.
Relativity’s factory vertically integrates intelligent robotics and 3D autonomous manufacturing technology to build an entirely 3D printed rocket, Terran 1, with 100x lower part count than traditional rockets.
6K represents 6,000 Kelvin (5,778K to be exact), the operating temperature of the UniMelt microwave production-scale plasma and the temperature of the surface of the sun.
The 6K Additive division is an ISO9001 facility, reclaims and processes more than 500 tons of Ti-64 per year, and is in the process of completing its state-of-the-art 40,000ft2 production facility for additive manufacturing powders.