EBAM used for Large Satellite Structures

Lockheed Martin has been experimenting with 3D printed components for large satellite structures for a while now. Even back in 2018 they were trialing the use of metal AM for the fabrication of titanium fuel tank sections, and had achieved a record-breaking 1.16-meter diameter fuel tank. It was at the time, the largest 3D printed space part.

That research has finally begun to pay off commercially for the aerospace giant, who have been offering the option of a 3D printed titanium tank for its LM 2100 satellite bus. Specifically, they have been manufacturing the end domes of a fuel tank.