aviation technology students recently made a functional 3D printed rocket in class. In this project they learned about all the details that must be considered for end-use parts required for such a lightweight rocket—from aerodynamics to weight and strength. The first two rockets the students built were fully functional, measuring eight feet tall. They were not completely 3D printed, however, constructed also with composite carbon fiber parts. The class is now working on a new rocket that is made of all 3D printed parts, and this involves making some adjustments in their design process so that 3D printing is considered at the time parts are being conceptualized and designed.
