US arms maker Raytheon 3D-prints guided missile parts like fins, rocket engine etc.
Looks like the future wars will be designed and fought over computers.
Raytheon says it has produced majority of the parts of a guided missile through 3D-printing.
RT@thehill: “The day is coming when missiles can be printed.
The user could [print on demand].
The Pentagon is looking to manufacture ordinance tailored for a specific mission on demand.
However, currently, the printing technology needs the controlled environment of a devoted factory to work satisfactorily.
Your development cycles are shorter, youre getting parts much faster.
you might design internal features that might be impossible to machine, said engineer Travis Mayberry.
The company says presently it is finding out ways to 3D-print complex microwave components and electronic circuits.
A further goal is to manufacture combined systems rather than different parts that need to be assembled together.
Over the years, enthusiasts have gone from making simple handguns for homes to automatic rifles.
For the time being, you will not be able to print a guided missile at home.
3D-printing of missiles will continue to be a task outside the reach of hobbyists.
In that case, Raytheons progress would not add to that argument.
source: www.techworm.net
