Japanese company Innovative Space Carrier Inc (ISC) has entered into a strategic partnership with WAAM3D, Cranfield University and Aichi Industrial to advance the development of propellant tanks for space transportation systems. This collaboration is expected to accelerate ISC’s goal of using cutting-edge wire-arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology to manufacture reusable space transportation vehicles within five years.
Advancing space technology through collaboration
Established in May 2022, ISC is quickly becoming an important player in the Japanese space industry. By adopting the philosophy of “Wakon Yosai” – learning from domestic and international partners with advanced expertise – ISC seeks to strengthen its development process. The company is moving toward agile development methods, resulting in faster iterations of design, manufacturing, testing and optimization. At the heart of the strategy is the use of additive manufacturing (AM) machines, which will enable ISC to shorten manufacturing cycles, rapidly test components and integrate manufacturing processes for more efficient production.
WAAM3D, a spin-out from Cranfield University, plays a vital role in this work. WAAM3D, known for its expertise in producing large and complex parts, will provide ISC with the necessary additive manufacturing machine tools. These machines will help overcome forming and thermal control challenges, enabling the production of high integrity propellant tanks. Dr. Filomeno Martina, CEO of WAAM3D, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, saying: “We are extremely happy to participate in such an ambitious project. Working with such amazing partners, we look forward to pushing the boundaries of scale, integrity and value. creation.
Cranfield University has extensive research experience in metal additive manufacturing, including through its Welding and Additive Manufacturing Centre. The university’s work in developing advanced materials and processes will help ISC achieve its ambitious goals. Meanwhile, Japanese metal additive manufacturing pioneer Aichi Sangyo will apply its expertise to develop and improve the ISC propellant tank manufacturing process, integrating production machinery, materials and design for optimal results.
Building the future of space transportation
The collaboration between ISC, WAAM3D, Cranfield University and Aichi Industries marks a major step forward in the development of space transportation technology. By leveraging advanced additive manufacturing technologies, the partnership aims to accelerate the development and testing of propellant tanks, advance the ISC’s mission to create reusable space transportation vehicles, and strengthen Japan’s presence in the global space industry.
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