DED Additive Manufacturing Enables Cryogenic-Ready Titanium Tanks
A South Korean team has successfully produced a 130-liter titanium pressure vessel using DED Additive Manufacturing, validating the process under cryogenic conditions. The Ti-6Al-4V tank, created via laser-wire Directed Energy Deposition, marks a world-first in AM-built pressure vessels certified for space environments.
The development team—comprising KITECH, KARI, KP Aero Industries, AM Solutions, and Hanyang University—leveraged in-situ monitoring and advanced path planning to ensure dimensional control and structural integrity. Two hemispheres were independently manufactured, heat-treated, machined, and welded.
Moreover, non-destructive evaluation confirmed zero defects prior to testing.
Cryogenic Proof Testing Confirms Space Mission Readiness
Under KARI supervision, the tank underwent cryogenic proof testing by cooling to -196°C and pressurizing to 330 bar. This exceeded the operational requirement of 220 bar, meeting aerospace-grade safety margins. Sensors confirmed structural behavior aligned with simulated results, demonstrating the reliability of DED-manufactured components for orbital applications.
The AM process removes the need for expensive forging dies and long machining cycles, enabling faster lead times and custom designs for satellites and launch vehicles. Therefore, the team plans further qualification steps and seeks collaboration with private space firms for broader adoption.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
This milestone for DED Additive Manufacturing highlights a clear path for metal AM in critical aerospace applications. The successful cryogenic testing validates both material performance and digital production workflows. Expect increasing interest from launch system OEMs and satellite integrators seeking lighter, faster-to-produce components.
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