Electron Beam Freeform Fabrication
From P2P Foundation
Electron Beam Freeform Fabrication or EBF3 , is a process by which NASA hopes to build metal parts in zero gravity environments. The process was primarily developed and engineered by Karen Taminger, Material Research Engineer for NASA.
EBF3 is a layer-additive process that uses an electron beam and a solid wire feedstock to fabricate metallic structures. The process efficiencies of the electron beam and the feedstock make the EBF3 process attractive for in-space use. [1]
The process reduces waste and energy spent on production and generates what Taminger – who works in Advanced Materials and Processing Branch -- calls a "2 to 1 buy-to-fly ratio," rather than the more standard 12-to-1 or as much as a 20-to-1 ratio.[2]
More Information
- From nothing, something: one layer at a time
- Star Trek-like Replicator? Electron Beam Device Makes Metal Parts, One Layer At A Time
