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Researchers at the University of Arizona College of Engineering are working on the development of hypersonic vehicles, with a focus on creating new technologies to propel U.S. military capabilities. As part of a federal initiative, the team is working on Mach-X vehicles that will travel at speeds greater than Mach 5—five times the speed of sound.
According to the press release, this two-year project is centered on using advanced metallic alloys and 3D printing to create components that can handle the extreme conditions of hypersonic flight, aided by a 3.1 million dollar grant from the U.S Army.
One of the key innovations is a 3D printing technique called compositional grading. This method allows the gradual transition of one alloy into another within a single component, optimizing the material’s ability to handle extreme heat and stress. The layered alloys not only improve the durability of the structures but also ensure that heat is rapidly dissipated, reducing the risks of localized hot spots that could damage the vehicle.
The team is also working on creating new alloys by consolidating metallic powders using advanced powder atomizers and metal 3D printers. The lab is designed to handle testing at extreme temperatures, with some materials being pushed to withstand heat exceeding 1,200°C.
This work aims to establish a solid foundation for 3D printing protocols, shedding light on the costs, benefits, and trade-offs involved in different materials and manufacturing processes. While the focus is on military applications, the researchers believe the technology could also have far-reaching implications for space travel and commercial aviation, industries that require speed and efficiency.
In the coming years, these advancements in hypersonic materials and manufacturing could reshape the future of both defense systems and civilian aerospace technologies, offering faster, more efficient options for high-speed flight.
