https://www.techspot.com/news/101857-experimental-3d-printer-melt-steel-create-new-objects.htmlsample quote
The 3D printer utilizes an industrial process known as additive manufacturing, one that has already revolutionized the design of parts and objects on Earth. While the ISS has several 3D printers using plastic material, metal printing presents different challenges, requiring a laser to reach the melting point of stainless steel (1,400 degrees Celsius), compared to the 200 degrees Celsius needed for plastic wires.
Ensuring the safety of the crew and the station is paramount, the ESA emphasized, requiring proper heat and fumes recycling. The printer operates within a fully sealed box, and the internal oxygen atmosphere must be replaced by nitrogen during printing to prevent oxidization of the metal parts being printed.
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