Arizona-based startup Rosotics has never hidden that it is on a mission to develop solutions that could serve the air, sea and defense activities. It turned stealth mode off last year after securing its first pre-seed round. At the time, the company had only unveiled a few information about Mantis, the prototype of a 3D printer that it described as the largest in the world.
Since then, radio silence – until July 17th when it announced the launch of a metal 3D printer for rocket tanks and other large aerospace structures. Named Halo “supercreator”, the company aims to go beyond 3D printing with this new concept to operate at the intersection of AI and materials.
The company’s HalOs software controls the new machine, which welds metals using three electromagnetic printheads. These printheads, called “Mjolnir” are mounted on proprietary, multi-axis gimbals.
“Halo is not a 3D printer in the traditional sense,” said founder Christian LaRosa. “It is a platform that elevates 3D printing to a sophisticated level, dominantly commanding metallurgical science. This is a historically significant advancement, marking the emergence of a profound new means of creation. I’m excited to see it in action.”
The company explains that Halo is laser and powder free; it is safe for humans, and is energy efficient – enough to reduce CO2 footprint per 500 kg of printed mass by over 86% when compared to WAAM. For space applications specifically, Halo is capable of up to 20,000 lbs (9072 kg) in payload across a build volume of 16.25′ (495 cm) in diameter and 19.75′ (602 cm) in height. The system is self-assembling and installs in 1 day.
Available within the United States, Europe, and Australia, Halo is able to be equipped with additional upgrades over time, such as a Controlled Atmosphere System Enclosure (CASE) for tough materials like titanium or inconel that need inert shielding.
It is too soon to testify of the Halo’s capabilities – although the main features introduced so far seemed impressive. However, with Phantom Space as one of the first customers, we hope the company will be able to share more about the applications this 3D printer can achieve.
Remember, you can post job opportunities in the AM Industry on 3D ADEPT Media free of charge or look for a job via our job board. Make sure to follow us on our social networks and subscribe to our weekly newsletter : Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn & Instagram! If you want to be featured in the next issue of our digital magazine or if you hear a story that needs to be heard, make sure to send it to contact@3dadept.com