中信证券：掘金商业航天产业链上游合金材料

Core Insights - The commercial aerospace sector is experiencing a rigid expansion driven by reusable iterations and the ITU timeline, leading to a multiplier effect in material demand [3][18] - Four core materials are expected to accelerate in industrialization: high-strength high-conductivity copper alloys, niobium alloys, tantalum alloys, and high-temperature alloys [3][18] Launch and Manufacturing Trends - In 2025, global rocket launches are projected to reach 329, with commercial aerospace accounting for 214 launches, approximately 65% of the total; China is expected to have 92 launches with 50% being commercial, while the US will have 198 launches with 82% commercial [4][18] - The recent approval of 203,000 low-orbit satellites in China, combined with existing projects, brings the total to over 255,000, indicating a significant push in satellite manufacturing [4][18] Policy Developments - Various policies have been established since 2014 to encourage private investment in commercial aerospace, marking the opening of the market [5][19] - The 2024 government work report includes commercial aerospace as a new growth engine, elevating its strategic importance in national economic development [5][19] Material Applications and Demand Drivers - High-strength high-conductivity copper alloys are crucial for liquid rocket engine combustion chambers, requiring materials that can withstand temperatures of 3000-4000°C [6][20] - Niobium alloys are essential for secondary rocket vacuum nozzles and high-performance thrust chambers, with C-103 and Nb521 being key grades [10][24] - Tantalum alloys are utilized for radiation resistance and thermal management in satellite applications, with significant demand in low-orbit satellite networks [12][26] - High-temperature alloys are central to commercial aerospace engine components, with various manufacturing processes being employed [15][29] Investment Strategy - The period from 2026 to 2030 is identified as critical for the transition of core aerospace materials from technology validation to mass industrialization, with a focus on high-strength high-conductivity copper alloys, niobium/tantalum alloys, and high-temperature alloys [16][31] - Investment recommendations include focusing on integrated engine and high-temperature materials, structural components using ring forgings and metal 3D printing, and radiation-resistant/spaceborne electronics [16][31]