Key Takeaways
- Fortastra and Hadrian partner to integrate advanced manufacturing technologies into satellite production
- The collaboration aims to improve manufacturability, shorten production timelines, and reduce costs
- Additive manufacturing (AM) and precision machining will be explored for satellite structures and components
- The partnership seeks to build satellites more efficiently and reduce weight
Introduction to Satellite Production Challenges
The demand for satellites is increasing, and manufacturers are seeking ways to build spacecraft faster without compromising performance. One approach is to involve manufacturing companies earlier in the design process. Fortastra, a California-based company, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hadrian, an advanced manufacturing company, to explore the integration of additive manufacturing, precision machining, and other production technologies into future satellite programs.
Partnership Details
The partnership between Fortastra and Hadrian will focus on improving manufacturability, shortening production timelines, and evaluating new manufacturing methods for satellite structures and components. Hadrian will work closely with Fortastra's engineering teams during spacecraft development, rather than serving only as a supplier. The companies will contribute their expertise in designing and qualifying spacecraft hardware, with Hadrian supporting manufacturing and Fortastra contributing its design expertise.
Manufacturing Technologies to be Explored
The companies will evaluate a range of manufacturing technologies, including:
| Technology | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Metal 3D Printing | Creates complex metal parts with high precision | Simplifies production, reduces time and material waste |
| Polymer 3D Printing | Creates complex polymer parts with high precision | Simplifies production, reduces time and material waste |
| Direct Energy Deposition | Adds material to a substrate using a focused beam of energy | Enables complex geometries, reduces material waste |
| Binder Jetting | Creates parts by depositing a binding agent onto a powder bed | Enables complex geometries, reduces material waste |
| Precision CNC Machining | Removes material from a workpiece using computer-controlled tools | Enables high-precision parts, reduces material waste |
| Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) | Removes material from a workpiece using electrical discharges | Enables high-precision parts, reduces material waste |
| Laser Cutting | Cuts materials using a high-powered laser beam | Enables high-precision cuts, reduces material waste |
| Cold Spray | Deposits material onto a substrate using a high-pressure gas stream | Enables complex geometries, reduces material waste |
| Friction Stir Welding | Joins materials using a rotating tool | Enables high-strength joints, reduces material waste |
Benefits of the Partnership
The partnership between Fortastra and Hadrian aims to build satellites more efficiently, reduce costs, and explore ways to reduce weight. By integrating advanced manufacturing technologies into the design process, the companies can simplify production, reduce material waste, and create complex parts with high precision.
Bottom Line
The partnership between Fortastra and Hadrian has the potential to revolutionize satellite production by integrating advanced manufacturing technologies into the design process. By exploring new manufacturing methods and technologies, the companies can improve manufacturability, shorten production timelines, and reduce costs. With the demand for satellites continuing to grow, this partnership is a significant step towards building satellites more efficiently and reducing the time and cost associated with production.