Turbopumps are essential components in everything from rocket engines to race cars. These core parts work by converting mechanical energy into pressure. The main working element of a turbopump is the impeller, which can either be open or closed (shrouded).

The main challenge in design is to achieve a balance between moving the fluid with a high velocity and avoiding the harmful effects of cavitation. This balance requires precise blade and channel geometries. Furthermore, the parts need to withstand high RPM stresses, rotating at 10s of thousands of RPM.

Hanwha decided to explore additive manufacturing to dramatically simplify the entire process and manufacture the part to the specifications needed. This technology offered an opportunity to iterate more quickly, refine the design, increase performance and optimize function.