One of the most popular topics of 3D technology, metal based production continues to spread. The metal printer range welcomed a new member, this time from Russia. Rosatom introduced the first local metal printer.
Speeding up its projects in additive manufacturing, Russia draw global industry’s interest with this innovation. Developing a printer prints with metal based solutions, Rosaton presented this innovation at International Trade Fair Innoprom 2016.
As presented at Innoprom 2016, the Russian metal 3D printer is made up of nearly 75% domestically produced parts, including a unique laser system from the Moscow region. Parts that have had to be imported include the optics and pneumatics of the machine, but the 3D printer’s developers are confident that they will be able to eventually manufacture the 3D printer from 90% domestically produced parts. In terms of specs, the printer is reportedly equipped with 1000W laser power, a three-axis scanning optical system, and a print speed of 15 to 70 cubic cm/hour.
“Over two and a half years 3D printing became one of the leading areas for Rosatom’s non-nuclear business. Today, a roadmap and strategy of additive technology development in the nuclear industry have been formulated,” said Aleksey Dub, the state corporation’s science and innovations division deputy director. “By the end of 2018, Rosatom should have the full set of expertise needed to offer additive technology services. There are plans to have equipment, materials and technologies in order to offer the possibility of implementing any design ideas in the form of finished products.”
In general, Russia has been increasingly adapting 3D printing technology into their most innovative projects. Back in March, the country sent the first-ever 3D printed nanosatellite up to the International Space Station, marking a major moment for the Russian space industry. In addition,the Russian United Instrument Manufacturing Corporation (UIMC) presented their first 3D printed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at the Innoprom trade fair. Currently, Rosatom is developing eight nuclear reactors in Russia, as well as 36 others abroad. So, it seems safe to say that this new metal 3D printing technology will be utilized, at least to some extent, in their upcoming nuclear energy projects.