#United States #Additive Manufacturing #Cocoa Beach #Velo3D #Vaya Space

Velo3D and Vaya Space: A New Era in Space Propulsion Manufacturing

In a groundbreaking move for the aerospace and defense sectors, Velo3D, Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with Vaya Space. This collaboration, amounting to $4 million over two years, aims to leverage Velo3D's innovative Rapid Production Solution (RPS) to streamline the additive manufacturing process for critical space propulsion components. The partnership represents a significant leap towards enhancing manufacturing efficiency and sustainability in the space industry, particularly in developing hybrid rocket technologies.

The Partnership Overview

Founded in Fremont, California, Velo3D is renowned for its advanced metal additive manufacturing technology, which is transforming supply chains across various industries. Vaya Space, based in Cocoa Beach, Florida, specializes in hybrid rocket systems designed for improved safety and efficiency. This partnership enables Vaya Space to utilize Velo3D's state-of-the-art manufacturing solutions, specifically its Sapphire XC and XC1MZ printers, to produce essential components for its next-generation propulsion systems.

The contract entails Vaya Space utilizing Velo3D’s cutting-edge technologies to accelerate the production of components necessary for developing high-performance hybrid rocket engines. One of the key materials being utilized is GRCop42, a copper alloy developed by NASA that excels in high-heat transfer applications. Additionally, the partnership will also employ Inconel 718, a superalloy known for its exceptional strength and thermal durability, particularly suited for aerospace environments.

Accelerating Production Timelines

Under this partnership, Velo3D will serve as the exclusive supplier for GRCop42 additive components, ensuring a consistent and reliable production capacity for Vaya Space through to 2027. This strategic collaboration is expected to significantly shorten the design-to-production cycle for crucial propulsion assemblies such as injector nozzles and turbopumps, which are vital for the overall performance of the propulsion systems.

In a joint statement, Michelle Sidwell, Chief Revenue Officer at Velo3D, expresses her excitement about the partnership: "This collaboration is a testament to how our Rapid Production Solution can empower innovative companies in the aerospace sector to scale their manufacturing efficiently, allowing them to focus on their core technological advancements."

Vaya Space's Vice President of Operations, Aaron Blankenship, shared similar sentiments, stating, "Integrating Velo3D's advanced manufacturing techniques with our propulsion development is crucial to achieve our target of faster and more cost-effective production. Furthermore, it enhances our capability to deliver flight-ready engines based on precise timelines and specifications."

Innovation in Hybrid Rocket Technology

Vaya Space is groundbreaking in its development of hybrid rocket engines. Working with Velo3D allows Vaya to produce components designed for simpler and safer operations while utilizing eco-friendly propellants. This innovative approach significantly improves the performance and sustainability of rocket propulsion systems — an essential advancement as the space industry increasingly focuses on eco-conscious solutions.

The collaboration's official signing event was recently held at Vaya Space’s facilities in Cocoa Beach, where both teams discussed technical frameworks and future plans for joint marketing strategies to widen their impact in the aerospace sector. A demonstration of a propulsion system utilizing Velo3D components was showcased during this significant event, marking a crucial milestone in their partnership journey.

Looking Ahead: Velo3D's Vision

Velo3D's contributions to the aerospace and defense landscapes have been recognized, reflected in its accolade as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies for 2024. This recognition emphasizes the essential role Velo3D plays in pushing the boundaries of what is possible with additive manufacturing. Their commitment to aiding customers in achieving previously unattainable production goals showcases the robust potential of their technology in shaping the future of aerospace.

As Velo3D and Vaya Space move forward together, industry observers keenly anticipate innovations that will not only reshape propulsion technologies but also redefine manufacturing norms in the space sector. The alliance between these two companies signals a promising direction for the future of aerospace technology and sustainable manufacturing practices.