Ep. 07: How Firehawk Aerospace Won Congressional Appropriations to Fuel their Liftoff
Mar 20, 2024
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Will Edwards, CEO of Firehawk Aerospace, discusses 3D printed rocket propellant, winning Congressional appropriations, and revolutionizing the propulsion market. Topics include innovative 3D printing in rocket fuel production, navigating niche space markets, military collaborations, and securing aerospace funding challenges.
Firehawk Aerospace utilizes 3D printing to streamline rocket fuel production and enhance supply chain capabilities.
Strategic engagement with government representatives and industry giants like Raytheon fuels Firehawk Aerospace's journey towards innovative rocket propulsion solutions.
Deep dives
Innovation in Rocket Propulsion
Firehawk Aerospace, led by CEO and founder Will Edwards, is a rocket propulsion solutions company utilizing 3D printing for propellant. The novel approach allows them to design, test, and fly rocket motors for the US government more efficiently compared to traditional methods, cutting production time significantly.
Revolutionizing Solid Rocket Fuel Production
Firehawk's innovative 3D printing technology not only streamlines the production of rocket fuel but also enhances supply chain capabilities for rocket motors. By avoiding the lengthy curing and quality control processes of traditional methods, Firehawk can produce propellant in about seven hours using a $200,000 printer, offering cost-effective solutions.
Origin Story and Hybrid Rocket Engine Technology
The company's roots trace back to Ron Jones, the creator of Firehawk's technology, focusing on hybrid rocket engines powered by a mix of ABS thermoplastic and nitrous oxide. The 3D printing approach revolutionized traditional casting methods, leading to structurally sound propellants that enable mid-flight restarts and increased efficiency.
Navigating Government Funding and Industry Partnerships
Firehawk's journey involved strategic engagement with government representatives to secure appropriations and develop key partnerships with industry giants like Raytheon. The company's approach to collaborative innovation and disruptive technology has propelled them forward, showcasing a shift towards defense tech renaissance and fostering a robust ecosystem in the industry.
Will Edwards, CEO and Co-founder of Firehawk Aerospace joins us to talk 3D printed rocket propellant, Congressional appropriations, and how the team is revolutionizing the propulsion market.
For more on Firehawk Aerospace, check out: https://firehawkaerospace.com/
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