Additive manufacturing company ADDiTEC announced that the U.S. Navy used an ElemX 3D printer based on the company’s Liquid Metal Jetting technology to produce functional parts aboard the USS San Diego.
3D Printing at Sea
The ElemX 3D printer enables on-demand production of systems and components at sea, which could reduce downtime and accelerate repairs.
According to ADDiTEC, the process proved efficient in a maritime environment. Evaluations showed that the components met performance and quality standards, making them functional and acceptable for their intended uses.
Changing How the Navy Manages Resources
The research examined how 3D printing high-strength aluminum alloy parts at sea could mark a shift in the Navy’s resource management and approach to maintenance issues. The process could also improve operational readiness and reduce dependency on traditional supply chains.
The collaboration between the Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing, Research, and Education and the Naval Postgraduate School contributed to the development of the 3D printing technology in the ElemX 3D printer.
ADDiTEC’s Continued Partnership with the Navy
ADDiTEC CEO Brian Mathews said the company would continue to work with the Navy to advance Liquid Metal Jetting technology as part of its Hybrid Series, which integrates subtractive and additive manufacturing into one machine.
“We have worked tirelessly to ensure that our 3D printing technologies meets the specific needs of maritime operations, and we are working to continuously enhance their reliability and efficiency, ensuring they are fully mission-ready for any operational demands,” Mathews said.
Image credit: ADDiTEC
