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3D printing in space makes the most sense when reproducing small parts for repairs. It would be hopelessly volume-intensive to stock thousands of small parts for all the different systems onboard a space-station or space-craft. Also consider that system may be a few decades old and the original factory shut years ago. Finally, consider how many thousands of dollars per kilogram to launch spare parts into orbit ... even worse if the space-craft is a few million kilometers from earth.I use my Ender 3 to make replacement parts for drawer slides, antique cars, antique guitars, etc.Current belt-printers can make structural members of infinite length. Next year belt printers will be able to make curved structural members hundreds of meters long.
3D printing in space makes the most sense when reproducing small parts for repairs. It would be hopelessly volume-intensive to stock thousands of small parts for all the different systems onboard a space-station or space-craft. Also consider that system may be a few decades old and the original factory shut years ago. Finally, consider how many thousands of dollars per kilogram to launch spare parts into orbit ... even worse if the space-craft is a few million kilometers from earth.
I use my Ender 3 to make replacement parts for drawer slides, antique cars, antique guitars, etc.
Current belt-printers can make structural members of infinite length. Next year belt printers will be able to make curved structural members hundreds of meters long.
