Skyrora, the British rocket and space technology company, has been selected as a prime contractor in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) General Support Technology Programme (GSTP) for its Tanbium project. The initiative will focus on additive manufacturing (3D printing) of Tanbium, a novel high-temperature aerospace alloy.
Existing aerospace alloys often face performance limitations and supply chain challenges. Tanbium is designed to overcome these constraints, outperforming legacy materials such as C103 and IN718. The alloy offers higher burn time and temperature capability, potential weight savings of up to 30% in engine components, up to 95% reduction in material waste through 3D printing, and a potential 40% reduction in overall component cost. This project marks the first Direct Energy Deposition (DED) application targeting rocket engine components, specifically nozzles and combustion chambers.
The nine-month ESA-funded project, starting in Q4 2025, will include 3D printing trials, material validation, mechanical testing, and business case analysis. Metalysis will supply alloy powders using its patented FFC® Cambridge solid-state electrochemical technology for low-carbon, scalable alloy synthesis. Thermo-Calc Solutions will support alloy design and simulation, optimising Tanbium’s chemistry and performance through advanced modelling.