Three former SpaceX engineers have founded 1872, a startup using AI-driven software and robots to automate steel parts manufacturing. The company opened its first facility in Cincinnati, Ohio, on July 22 and aims to have a prototype factory automating most steel fabrication for critical infrastructure by 2027.
Its initial focus is producing steel skids, which are movable frames for modular buildings, targeting customers in AI data centers and small modular nuclear reactors. CEO Dan Summers said the goal is practical autonomy, potentially stopping around 80% rather than pursuing full automation due to diminishing returns.
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