Elon recently noted that Raptor (unlike SuperDraco) won't be fully 3D-printed. I...

ygra on Oct 20, 2017 | parent | context | favorite | on: Printers Meant to Make Rockets

Elon recently noted that Raptor (unlike SuperDraco) won't be fully 3D-printed. It will have 3D-printed parts, but most of the engine will be machined. I guess for a larger engine the things you mentioned have to be more tightly controlled to be able to print the whole engine. Might also be a cost issue as size increases, I guess.

chinathrow on Oct 20, 2017 [–]

Also, build size and volume is still a constraint in metal 3d printing these days.