Agnikul Cosmos unveils world’s largest single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine, secures US patent

In a groundbreaking development for India's private space industry, Chennai-based startup Agnikul Cosmos has unveiled the world's largest single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine. This innovative engine, crafted entirely from inconel, marks a significant advancement in both size and complexity, setting a global precedent in additive manufacturing for aerospace applications. The engine, measuring an impressive meter in length, was produced in a single print job without any welds, joints, or fasteners, showcasing a remarkable leap forward in manufacturing techniques. Agnikul announced this achievement on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting that this milestone transcends basic 3D printing; it exemplifies the automation of the entire production process of a rocket engine. In a further boost to its reputation, Agnikul also revealed that it has secured a US patent for the design and manufacturing process of its single-piece rocket engines. The company expressed pride in having an Indian-origin design patented in the United States, a nation known for its sophisticated engineering feats in the aerospace industry. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group and an investor in Agnikul, praised the team's efforts, stating, "Bravo! And this makes me even prouder to be an investor." This announcement comes shortly after Agnikul's successful test-firing of India’s first electric motor-driven semi-cryogenic rocket engine, which is set to power its upcoming Agnibaan launch vehicle. This engine utilizes liquid oxygen and refined kerosene while replacing traditional gas generators and turbopumps with electric motors, providing a cleaner and more controllable thrust. Supported by prominent Indian space organizations such as ISRO, IN-SPACe, and DST, Agnikul's achievements reflect the burgeoning innovation and maturity of India's private space sector, positioning local players to become significant competitors in the future of global space exploration.