International Space Station to get 3D printer

BBC : Additive manufacturing, otherwise known as 3D printing, will soon be used in space. NASA has contracted with space manufacturing company Made in Space to send a 3D printer, which builds objects layer by layer out of plastic and metals, to the International Space Station (ISS). With such a device, astronauts will be able to create tools, replacement parts, and supplies as needed. To test the prototype printer, Made in Space simulated the conditions on the ISS by conducting four microgravity flights during which the printer was exposed to the stress of launch and fluctuating air pressure and temperature. The printer is scheduled to arrive at the ISS by 2014.