3D-Printed Components In A Rocket Engine: Businesses Can Launch Own Satellite Into Space

Launch Your Own Satellite into Space (+Video)

Lydia Mahon | July 14, 2016

[...] The Electron is an innovative launch vehicle, which makes the cost of space launch no longer ‘out of reach’ for businesses.
It is designed for payloads of up to 150kg, to a 500km sun-synchronous orbit. The Electron can also be customised for specific missions, including those at different sun-synchronous altitudes in different orbits between 45 and 98 degrees.
[...] The engine which powers the Electron Launch Vehicle, has 3D printed parts as all of its primary components. This 4,900lbf engine, called the Rutherford, uses an electric propulsion cycle, using electric motors to drive its turbopumps. It is said to be the first of its kind to use 3D printed parts.

Source: https://www.rocketlabusa.com/

Source: http://www.spaceflightinsider.com/missions/commercial/rocket-lab-electron-rutherford-peter-beck-started-first-place/

<more at http://3dprintingindustry.com/news/launch-satellite-space-87190/; related articles and links: https://www.rocketlabusa.com/ (Rocket Lab website) and http://www.spaceflightinsider.com/missions/commercial/rocket-lab-electron-rutherford-peter-beck-started-first-place/ (Rocket lab: The Electron, the Rutherford, and why Peter Beck started it in the first place. May 2, 2015)>