Additive Friction Stir Deposition for In-Space Manufacturing

IERUS Technologies proposes to investigate utilization of additive friction stir deposition (AFS-D), to robotically fabricate and repair large structures in the external space environment. The AFS-D process, commercially known as MELD, provides a new path for coating, joining, repairing and additively manufacturing metals and metal matrix composites The MELD process produces fully-dense, near net-shape structures in open atmospheric conditions without secondary post processing. MELD is a fast, low-power, fully scalable, deposits almost any metal on the market and builds complex 3-D structures without support material. MELD also offers a unique opportunity for in-orbit recycling applications. The MELD process is a capable platform for recycling, using scrap metal chips and damaged components as feedstock to additively manufacture new. MELD could be the technique that unlocks in-space manufacturing potential while simultaneously mitigating orbital debris. The MELD additive manufacturing technique is well suited for on-orbit manufacturing and will bring tremendous advantages.