The project includes utilizing 3D Systems Technology
FORT MYERS, Fla., April 24,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In a development aimed at reinforcing
the United States' national
security capabilities, ADDMAN Group, via its HARBEC business
unit, has been entrusted with a pivotal qualification project for
the US Navy. This project focuses on the Additive Manufacturing
(AM) of Copper-Nickel (CuNi) components in submarine fittings,
promising to revolutionize the manufacturing landscape for naval
applications. Collaborating with industry leaders such as Phillips,
Austal USA, the US Navy, and Blue
Forge Alliance, this initiative is a critical component of the
Navy's strategic plan to overcome supply chain challenges and meet
its ambitious "2+1" submarine production targets.
Addressing the pressing issue of extended lead times and quality
concerns associated with traditional castings—which can exceed 12
months with a high scrap rate—this AM qualification project will
significantly reduce procurement cycles and enhance component
quality. "The challenges of traditional casting methods have
impeded the Navy's ability to meet its production goals. Through
this project, we are not just solving a supply chain issue; we are
contributing to national security," stated Robert Dunn, Sr. Director of Hypersonic and
Maritime Business Development at ADDMAN. "Leveraging Additive
Manufacturing for these critical components, we can eliminate the
limitations of casting, offering superior material properties and
faster production times."
The project stands as a testament to ADDMAN's commitment to
innovation, demonstrating how strategic collaborations and
technological advancements can address the complex challenges faced
by the defense sector. The successful implementation of this
project will not only ensure a more robust and resilient supply
chain but also solidify the US Navy's position at the forefront of
technological innovation, ensuring readiness and strategic
superiority. This will continue through the entire lifecycle
of the programs as repair components can be sourced and reduce time
in dock. "A primary mission of Austal USA is to bring new production capacity into
the Submarine Industrial Base," said Don
Hairston, General Manager, Austal USA Advanced Technologies. "We are excited to
work with ADDMAN Group to deliver on that mission."
ADDMAN's approach involves the collective expertise and
resources of its seven production sites across the United States, including the specialized
skills of the HARBEC unit in Rochester,
NY. This collaboration underscores a holistic strategy aimed
at exploring scalable solutions for the production of AM Naval
components, enabling the Navy to achieve its production and
operational objectives.
Media Contact: Andrea Medrano,
andrea.medrano@addmangroup.com, (314) 996-9960
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SOURCE ADDMAN