Agnikul Cosmos is an Indian space startup based in Chennai. This startup has built the world’s largest single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine from Inconel, an alloy that can withstand extreme heat and pressure. This game-changer is printed without any joints or welds, making it stronger and safer. Agnikul has also earned a US patent for this design and the manufacturing process.
Having a patent in the US, Agnikul has the sole legal right to their creation in one of the most significant and most cutthroat marketplaces in the world. This prohibits the unauthorized production, use, or sale of the patented technology. The patent places India on the Global map for its unique accomplishments and space innovation.
In a social media post on X, the business stated, “Humbled to introduce the world’s biggest single-piece 3D-printed inconel engine, a global first in both scale and complexity.”
Why This Innovation Matters
The traditional rockets are constructed by assembling many different parts. Each weld or joint is a potential weak spot. These points may malfunction under the intense pressure of a launch. By printing the engine as one solid piece, the engine can tolerate extreme temperatures and pressure during a rocket launch. This approach improves rocket performance and cost-effectiveness by reducing weight and production time by more than 60%. What once took months to produce can now be done in three days.
The Founders and Their Vision
Agnikul Cosmos was founded by Srinath Ravichandran and Moin SPM at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. The goal is to build a future in which launching a satellite is as easy and customized as launching an online product. Agnikul is working toward a space economy that is both inclusive and scalable with its on-demand configurations, dedicated orbital access, and flexible launch options.
Vision: “Getting to space shouldn’t be the hardest part of being space-faring. So, why not design and build orbital-class launch vehicles, from India, for the world?”
How the Single-Piece Engine Works
The engine is made from Inconel, a nickel-chromium alloy. The strength of this alloy is well-known at high temperatures. Complex shapes that are impossible to create with traditional manufacturing are made possible by 3D printing. Because it is printed as a single piece, there are no extra parts to assemble. This reduces weight, increases strength, and improves reliability. Additionally, the framework makes it easier for developers to modify features, which promotes creativity.
The Bigger Picture for India’s Space Sector
India’s space industry has long been led by ISRO. However, the private sector is now taking a bigger role. Agnikul’s success demonstrates that private startups are capable of competing globally.
This path offers new technological solutions and increases the production timeline. Agnikul’s US patent and proven launch capabilities are helping to establish India as a pioneer in low-cost, quick-turnaround space missions.
Looking Ahead
Agnikul is now focused on building its Agnibaan orbital launch vehicle. This small rocket is designed to carry up to 100 kilograms to low Earth orbit. The organization intends to produce rockets on demand for clients all over the world using the same single-piece 3D-printed engines.
The work of Agnikul Cosmos is more than a technological milestone. It is a sign of change in India’s space industry.
“A remarkable feat which will make the entire nation proud! The successful launch of Agnibaan rocket powered by world’s first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine is a momentous occasion for India’s space sector and a testament to the remarkable ingenuity of our Yuva Shakti,” said Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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