The Rocket Propulsion Division within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Aerospace Systems Directorate has upgraded its fabrication capabilities with new equipment designed to advance the production of rocket components.
AFRL said Friday the division received new devices, including five computer numerical control milling machines, three CNC lathes, a wire electrical discharge machining machine, a sinker EDM machine, a small hole EDM, a waterjet cutter and several manually operated machines.
These machines will work to enable engineers and scientists to speed up production and increase the accuracy of liquid rocket engine parts and solid rocket motor components.
“The machines are equipped with similar CNC control units to lessen operator training. More accurate spindles and electronic part probing reduce setup time and increase precision,” said Ben Gleason, lead fabrication technician.
AFRL noted that the new machines are equipped with automation capabilities to meet test schedules and create consistency in production.
“The new machines support highly precise cuts which eliminate waste and save money on material and human error in the fabrication process,” Gleason said.
