Daily Current Affairs : 14-May-2024
India’s space corporation, ISRO, recently reached a significant milestone in rocket engine technology by successfully conducting a hot test of a liquid rocket engine made using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology, also known as 3D printing. This success highlights the potential of 3D printing in revolutionizing space technology, making it more cost-effective and efficient.
Hot Test of the RCS Engine
The hot test was conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. The engine tested is part of the Reaction Control System (RCS) used in the upper stage (PS1) of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Notably, this same engine is also used in the first stage (PS1) of PSLV.
Key features of the hot test:
- The test assesses the engine’s performance under real working conditions, including exposure to high temperatures.
- It is vital to ensure that the engine functions reliably during launch and space operations.
Benefits of 3D Printing in Engine Production
One of the main advantages of using 3D printing for manufacturing rocket engines is the significant reduction in raw materials and production time. Compared to traditional manufacturing methods, 3D printing has shown remarkable efficiency:
- Reduction in raw materials: The new manufacturing method uses only 13 kg of metal powder, compared to 565 kg of forgings and sheets used in conventional techniques.
- Time efficiency: The production time is reduced by 60%, allowing for faster development and testing of engines.
What is Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)?
Additive Manufacturing is a process where objects are built layer by layer from a digital model. Unlike traditional methods, which remove material from a larger piece (subtractive manufacturing), AM adds material to create an object.
Materials used in AM include:
- Metals
- Thermoplastics
- Ceramics
- Biomaterials
This innovative process has broad applications beyond space technology and is transforming industries worldwide.
Government Support for 3D Printing in India
The Government of India has recognized the potential of 3D printing and has taken steps to promote its use. In 2022, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launched the “National Strategy for Additive Manufacturing.” As part of this strategy, key initiatives include:
- Establishing a 3D printing lab at the National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology, Aurangabad.
- Setting up the National Centre for Additive Manufacturing in 2023, in collaboration with the Government of Telangana.
These efforts aim to support innovation and technological advancement in India, positioning the country as a leader in the global additive manufacturing sector.
Important Points:
- ISRO’s Achievement: Successfully conducted a hot test of a liquid rocket engine made using Additive Manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing.
- Engine Tested: Part of the Reaction Control System (RCS) for both the upper (PS1) and first stage (PS1) of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
- Test Location: Conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
- Hot Test Purpose: To evaluate the engine’s performance under real operational conditions, including exposure to high temperatures.
Benefits of 3D Printing in Rocket Engine Production:
- Material Efficiency: 3D printing uses only 13 kg of metal powder compared to 565 kg of traditional materials (forgings and sheets).
- Time Efficiency: Reduces production time by 60%, speeding up the development and testing process.
- What is Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)?
- A method of building objects layer by layer from a digital model.
- Uses materials like metals, thermoplastics, ceramics, and biomaterials.
Government Support for 3D Printing:
- National Strategy for Additive Manufacturing: Launched by MeitY in 2022 to promote 3D printing in India.
- Key Initiatives:
- 3D printing lab at the National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology (Aurangabad).
- National Centre for Additive Manufacturing set up in collaboration with the Government of Telangana in 2023.
- Impact: 3D printing is transforming industries and positioning India as a global leader in additive manufacturing.
Why In News
ISRO achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting a hot test of a liquid rocket engine created using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology, commonly known as 3D printing, marking a significant advancement in the use of cutting-edge technology for space exploration. This achievement demonstrates ISRO’s ability to innovate and enhance the efficiency of rocket manufacturing processes, paving the way for more cost-effective and sustainable space missions in the future.
MCQs about ISRO’s Breakthrough in 3D Printed Rocket Engine Technology
-
ISRO achieved a milestone by conducting a successful hot test of a liquid rocket engine created using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology. What does AM stand for?
A. Artificial Manufacturing
B. Additive Manufacturing
C. Automated Manufacturing
D. Advanced Manufacturing
-
Where was the hot test of the 3D printed rocket engine conducted?
A. Bengaluru, Karnataka
B. ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri
C. National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology, Aurangabad
D. Space Research Center, Hyderabad
-
What is the main benefit of using Additive Manufacturing (3D printing) for rocket engine production?
A. It reduces the weight of the rocket
B. It increases production time
C. It reduces raw material usage and production time
D. It eliminates the need for testing
-
What materials are commonly used in Additive Manufacturing (3D printing)?
A. Only plastic
B. Metals, thermoplastics, ceramics, and biomaterials
C. Only metals
D. Only metals and ceramics
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
