NASA selects Elementum 3D as co-exclusive licensee for GRX-810 high-temperature Additive Manufacturing alloy
May 21, 2024
Elementum 3D, based in Thornton, Colorado, USA, has announced that NASA has selected the company as one of four to produce and distribute GRX-810 alloy under a commercial co-exclusive license. The high-temperature metal superalloy will be offered to original equipment manufacturers of airplanes and rockets, as well as the entire supply chain.
NASA’s goal of the licensing agreement is to quickly accelerate the adoption of GRX-810 to benefit US technologies, industry, and space exploration. The material is capable of creating lighter and thinner engine parts, reducing fuel burn, lowering operating costs, increasing durability, and lowering the tolerance for failure for critical applications.
GRX-810 is an oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloy that can endure higher temperatures and stress. Its strength is derived from the dispersion of tiny particles containing oxygen atoms. The breakthrough superalloy was specifically developed for the extreme temperatures and harsh conditions of aerospace applications, including liquid rocket engine injectors, combustors, turbines, and hot-section components, capable of enduring temperatures up to 1,100 °C.
Compared to other alloys, GRX-810 can endure higher temperatures and stress up to 2,500 times longer. It’s also 3.5 times better at flexing before breaking and twice as resistant to oxidation damage.
Over the past nine years, Elementum 3D has gained extensive knowledge and experience in developing, commercialising, and distributing “impossible-to-print” dispersion-strengthened materials similar to GRX-810.
“We are excited to be working with Tim Smith and NASA to bring this exceptional new alloy to the commercial market,” stated Jeremy Iten, Elementum 3D Chief Technology Officer.
NASA’s investment in developing GRX-810 demonstrates its dedication to advancing Additive Manufacturing. Elementum 3D and the other co-exclusive licensees now assume the responsibility of investing the time and resources to supply the industry with a stronger, more durable superalloy.
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