A 3D metal printing technique using a patented ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) process uses sound waves to merge layers of metal foil. This technology can manufacture complex components with features and attributes not possible through traditional manufacturing techniques. Satellites have long used layers of aluminum, titanium, and tantalum to create a graded-Z structure. The variation in the metals’ Z values creates an effective filter along a broad spectrum of radiation, protecting sensitive electronic components and reducing background noise for signal analysis. Generally, graded-Z shielding also will be lighter and thinner than traditional shielding. Since UAM can easily combine dissimilar metals, Fabrisonic can 3D print structural panels with several different Z-number materials in a single component.
