About a year ago, an article “New alloy for 3D printing resists heat” was published on our website, dedicated to the material marked GRX-810. Investment NASA into this breakthrough superalloy developed for the extreme temperatures and harsh conditions of spaceflight is now on the threshold of commercial application. NASA has licensed the discovery to four American companies, a practice that is beneficial to the American economy as it returns the taxpayers’ investment. GRX-810 can be used in metal 3D printing, withstands high temperatures, and parts made from it will lead to stronger and more durable aircraft and probes as they can handle more stress before reaching the point of failure.
The fuel-air mixer for a turbine engine is an example of a component that can benefit from the use of GRX-810 alloy.
Source: https://www.nasa.gov/
The license was specifically granted to the following four companies:
- Carpenter Technology Corporation of Reading, Pennsylvania
- Elementum 3D, Inc. of Erie, Colorado
- Linde Advanced Material Technologies, Inc. of Indianapolis
- Powder Alloy Corporation of Loveland, Ohio
The GRX-810 is the most recent example of how Technology Transfer Program managers review and file applications for patent protection. The teams also work with inventors to find partners interested in commercialization. “NASA invests taxpayer money in research that directly benefits the United States and transfers these technologies to industry by licensing its patents,” describes Amy Hiltabidel, licensing manager at the Glenn Center in Cleveland.
3D printed NASA logo from GRX-810 material.
Source: nasa.gov
NASA engineers designed GRX-810 for applications in the aerospace industry, including propellant injectors in liquid propellant rocket engines, but it can also be used in combustion chambers, turbines and parts that get very hot, as it can withstand heat of over 1100°C. “The GRX-810 introduces a new design space and production technique that were impossible a few years ago,says Tim Smith, materials researcher at the Glenn Center. he was also with his colleague Christopher Kantzos at the discovery of this superalloy. Both experts used a time-saving method of computer modeling as well as laser 3D printing, which connects metals layer by layer. Tiny particles containing oxygen atoms spread throughout the alloy increase its strength.
NASA logo 3D printing process from GRX-810 superalloy.
Source: https://www.nasa.gov/
Compared to other nickel alloys, GRX-810 can withstand higher temperatures and stress. It could last up to 2,500 times longer. It bends almost 4x better than it breaks and resists oxidation 2x better. “The use of this alloy will lead to sustainable aviation and aerospace,” says Dale Hopkins, deputy project manager for NASA’s Transformational Tools and Technologies program, adding: “This is because jet engines and rocket parts made from GRX-810 will reduce operating costs by lasting longer and improving overall combustion efficiency.Research and development teams include teams from the Glenn, Marshall and Ames Centers, or Ohio State University, where 3D printed rocket engine parts were recently tested. NASA has developed many technologies that solve the challenges of space exploration, improve our understanding of our home planet, or improve air travel. Through patent licenses and other mechanisms, NASA has provided more than 2,000 technologies to companies that have developed them into products and solutions that support the U.S. economy.
Translated from:
https://www.nasa.gov/
Image Sources:
https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/grc-2023-c-02399.jpg
https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/thumbnails/image/alloy_grx-810_combustor.jpg
https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/grc-2023-c-02309.jpg
https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/grc-2023-cm-0185.jpg
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