Ariane and Linde to work on copper AM alloys for rockets

Copper’s reflective properties make it challenging for traditional additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, with the material acting like a mirror to the laser, meaning large portions of power are reflected and not used to melt the metal. While a higher laser intensity can be used, this can risk oxidation issues as well as overheating the part. Recent advances in AM mean that copper powders can now be used to create complex geometries, such as bespoke cooling channels in rocket engine chambers.

The technique that Ariane and Linde are collaborating on uses Linde’s ADDvance Laser230 gas mixture. Developed specifically to optimise printing outcomes in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) processes, it incorporates a proprietary blend of argon and helium, helping to mitigate fumes and spatter formation, as well as accelerate cycle times. According to the partners, it will enable them to create high quality printed copper components, including combustion chambers for the Ariane launchers of the future.