ThrustMe elects 3DCeram as Supplier for 3D Printed Ceramic Parts

New Space company ThrustMe has selected 3DCeram as a supplier for its innovative space propulsion systems. ThrustMe, which conducted the world’s first demonstration of an iodine-powered electric propulsion system in space in 2020, sees ceramic additive manufacturing as a way to improve the performance of its propulsion systems.

ThrustMe supplies the major satellite constellations and has a new manufacturing facility that can produce 365 products per year and meet the stringent requirements of the space industry.

“The decision to adopt 3D printing technology for manufacturing a specific part in our thruster was driven by a number of factors that emerged from an extensive research process. Primarily, the space industry often requires the production of complex shapes that cannot be easily obtained through traditional machining methods. At ThrustMe, we don’t talk about only the complexity but also the miniaturization, a critical requirement in the development of our products. In such cases, 3D printing offers a transformative solution by enabling the creation of specific designs with the precision we need”, explains Elena Zorzoli Rossi, ThrustMe product manager.

ThrustMe recognized the immense potential of ceramic materials and turned to 3DCeram for its expertise in additive manufacturing. The concept of 3D-printed ceramics aims to overcome the limitations of traditional manufacturing techniques and materials and provide a more compact, efficient and reliable solution.

“On 3DCeram side, we take pride in our collaboration with Thrust Me as 3D-printed ceramic components have been successfully sent into space, marking a significant milestone in the application of additive manufacturing. We believe that this successful deployment of 3D-printed ceramic components in space serves as a testament to the immense potential of additive manufacturing. It signifies a new era where complex and customized parts can be efficiently produced, surpassing traditional manufacturing limitations. We believe that sharing this milestone achievement provides a great example of the real-world applications of 3D printing. This significant step forward not only validates the viability of 3D printing as a production tool but also inspires us to reach further and unlock the vast possibilities that lie ahead“, says Arnaud Roux – sales representative of 3DCeram.