Skylark, smithy in space
Abstract
West German-sponsored experiments designed to test the feasibility of conducting metallurgical processes under zero-gravity conditions are described. The experiments, which will be carried out in a sounding rocket, include melting and directional solidification of prefabricated turbine blades to create high-strength blades with very high melting points, and production of homogeneous lead/aluminum mixtures for the manufacture of bearings. An acoustic levitation device capable of keeping metal samples suspended in a furnace during crystallization and segregation tests will also be included in the rocket-borne experimental package.
- Publication:
-
New Scientist
- Pub Date:
- December 1977
- Bibcode:
- 1977NewSc..76..556H
- Keywords:
-
- European Space Programs;
- Metallurgy;
- Skylark Rocket Vehicle;
- Space Manufacturing;
- Cost Analysis;
- Directional Solidification (Crystals);
- Levitation;
- Magnetoacoustics;
- Space Commercialization;
- Spacelab Payloads;
- Turbine Blades;
- Weightlessness;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles