Today there are lots of different metals that can be 3D printed. Some have very high capability. Are there any that compete with custom forged parts used in Raptor? I don't know, I don't think people outside of industry really have this information.
We know that SpaceX has its own material science team developing its own alloys specifically for their use case. This material doesn't seem to be designed for 3D printing (as far as we know).
What if SpaceX had instead invested that money in superior material for 3D printing instead?
Maybe somebody who is doing their PhD on material science in rocketry can comment.
I would also consider that engine likely has other places that would be more likely to put a limiting factor on durability so maybe it doesn't matter so much.
We know that SpaceX has its own material science team developing its own alloys specifically for their use case. This material doesn't seem to be designed for 3D printing (as far as we know).
What if SpaceX had instead invested that money in superior material for 3D printing instead?
Maybe somebody who is doing their PhD on material science in rocketry can comment.
I would also consider that engine likely has other places that would be more likely to put a limiting factor on durability so maybe it doesn't matter so much.