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In other exciting news, Australian large-format 3D printer manufacturer AML3D has just announced a new prototype Nickel-Aluminium-Bronze (NAB) component order. This order, valued at approximately $0.6 million USD, is in support of the US Navy’s submarine program. The prototype part, weighing around 1 tonne, will be 3D printed using AML3D’s innovative ARCEMY Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) metal 3D printer.
The order was received by BlueForge Alliance, a nonprofit integrator working to support the US Navy’s submarine industrial base. This collaboration aims to strengthen and sustain the submarine program through technology adoption and acceleration.
The manufacturing cycle for the prototype component is set to run for 22-24 weeks at AML3D’s facility in Adelaide. Interim CEO Sean Ebert expressed his excitement about this expansion of prototype component manufacturing, stating that it’s a great opportunity to showcase AML3D’s cost-effective and high-quality additive manufacturing technology. He also emphasized the key role that large-scale ARCEMY systems can play within the US Defense sector, offering point of need manufacturing solutions to solve supply chain challenges for the US Navy.
This new order aligns with AML3D’s ongoing strategy to scale up its operations in the US defense sector. With a focus on becoming a point of need additive manufacturing technology solution for the US Navy’s submarine program, the company sees the US as its primary growth market. Ebert emphasized the importance of delivering contract manufacturing solutions to support ARCEMY systems sales within the US Defense sector.
This recent NAB prototype component order follows a $1.51 million USD contract with the US Navy, where AML3D will develop and 3D print high-demand, complex NAB components for submarines. These components are no longer available through traditional manufacturers. AML3D’s ARCEMY 3D printers are capable of producing these parts while exceeding the material strength properties of equivalent cast parts. The contract will run until June 2024.
Additionally, AML3D has secured a contract extension to continue NAB alloy characterization and strength testing to support the US Navy’s submarine program. This extension builds on the successful results of the company’s initial NAB alloy testing contract. The testing will take place over 8-10 weeks at AML3D’s facility in Adelaide, with a value of approximately $280,000 USD.
Looking beyond the US, AML3D is also eager to expand its defense collaborations. With the recent AUKUS Alliance partnership between Australia, the USA, and the UK, AML3D sees opportunities to access additional defense markets over the medium to longer term.
Metal 3D printing is gaining momentum in the defense industry. Meltio, a metal 3D printing company, was recently recognized as a strategic technology partner by the U.S. Department of Defense. This recognition strengthens their relationship with the US Army and opens doors for collaborations with other defense departments worldwide.
Furthermore, a Xerox metal 3D printer was installed on the USS Essex last year. The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship has been used as a testing ground to evaluate the printer’s performance at sea. Sailors have been trained to operate the 3D printer, and a sea testing program is underway, where a team aboard the USS Essex prints various aluminum parts.
As the 3D printing industry continues to grow, its significance in the defense sector cannot be understated. The ability to manufacture complex components quickly and efficiently onboard ships or submarines provides invaluable solutions to supply chain challenges.
So, if you haven’t already, make sure to submit your nominations for the 3D Printing Industry Awards 2023. And keep an eye out for the innovative contributions that AML3D and other companies are making to revolutionize metal 3D printing in the defense industry.
Reporting the results back to NPS and Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMNAVSURFPAC) is a crucial task. It is essential to keep them informed about the progress and achievements onboard. This task becomes even more critical when the results are significant and can potentially affect the warfighting readiness of the fleet.
One such development that has caught the attention of Lt. Cmdr. Nicolas Batista, the Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) officer of the Essex, is the acquisition of a 3D printer. Lt. Cmdr. Batista believes that having this printer onboard will revolutionize the fleet’s capabilities. He asserts that it will not only accelerate the maintenance and repair processes but also enhance and increase their warfighting readiness.
The potential of the 3D printer is enormous. It will enable Essex to become more self-sufficient, reducing the reliance on external suppliers and increasing their operational readiness. This is a significant advantage, especially in situations where timely availability of spare parts or components can make a difference in the success of a mission.
The capabilities of the 3D printer extend beyond just maintenance and repair. It opens up a world of possibilities for innovation and customization. With the ability to print metal parts onboard, the sailors can explore new designs and prototypes that are tailored to their specific needs, giving them a competitive edge in the field.
This acquisition is a testament to the Navy’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies. It shows their willingness to invest in additive manufacturing, recognizing its potential to transform their operations. By embracing this technology, the Navy is making a statement that they are ready to adapt and evolve in the ever-changing landscape of modern warfare.
As the news of this acquisition spreads, it is not only confined to the naval community. The 3D printing industry is also taking notice. Industry experts and enthusiasts are curious to see how the Navy will leverage this technology. This has led to an increase in interest and engagement with the additive manufacturing industry, with more people wanting to learn and be a part of this growing field.
If you are interested in working in the additive manufacturing industry, there are numerous opportunities available. From research and development to manufacturing and design, the possibilities are vast. By joining the industry, you can contribute to the advancement of this technology and be a part of its incredible journey.
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In conclusion, the acquisition of the 3D printer onboard the Essex is a game-changer for the Navy. It will revolutionize their maintenance and repair processes, enhance their operational readiness, and give them a competitive edge in the field. This development has not only caught the attention of naval authorities but has also sparked interest in the additive manufacturing industry. It demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies and their readiness to adapt to the evolving nature of warfare.
“Why did the 3D printer go to therapy? Because it had too many layers of unresolved issues!”
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