The MIT Rocket Team creates 3D printed rocket using plastic

With the constant developments being made in 3D printing, it can sometimes be hard to keep up. But, there is always a piece of news that stands out from the rest, and this is one of them.

Recently, an independent student group at MIT called the “MIT Rocket Team” has designed a new and improved rocket that takes 3D printing to a whole new level. With 14 years of experience under their belt, this group was able to 3D print a rocket motor using plastic instead of metal.

When it comes to 3D printing parts for large scale projects such as seen with SpaceX, NASA or Lockheed Martin, the typical go to material is metal, for obvious reasons. But, for the MIT Rocket Team, 3D printing metal parts was not a viable option. This is due to it being a costly printing process, when looking at material and printer costs. The team therefore decided to try a new material, plastic.