China Launches Satellite Equipped with 3D-Printed Storage Tank

China has launched the Tiandu-2 satellite, a communication and navigation technology test satellite, which is working well, marking the first in-orbit application of a 3D-printed storage tank in China. The cold propulsion system recently provided high-precision orbital attitude control for the satellite during lunar orbit, marking the first successful application of the liquid ammonia cold air micro-propulsion system in the field of deep-space exploration, according to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. The storage tank is a vital component of satellite propulsion systems. As a pressure component, it requires not only high precision of forming and no leakage, but also good anti-fatigue performance, allowing for repeated fuel filling and discharge. The development team from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation has mastered a number of key technologies to connect the components inside the storage box through 3D printing, which has greatly shortened the development cycl e and effectively reduced the cost. On March 20, China launched the new relay satellite Queqiao-2 and two communication and navigation technology test satellites Tiandu-1 and Tiandu-2. Source: Qatar News Agency