AML3D wins contract to 3D print metal parts for US Navy submarines

AML3D has won a contract to develop and test 3D printing copper-nickel (Cu-Ni) components for the US Navy’s submarine program.

The contract was signed with BlueForge Alliance, a neutral integrator that supports the strengthening and sustainment of the US Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base through new technologies.

Testing will run parallel with the recently extended Nickel-Aluminium-Bronze alloy characterisation, corrosion, and strength testing program AML3D is running with the US Department of Defence.

This new contract demonstrates the increasing momentum in expanding the range of AML3D metal 3D printed alloys that meet the US Navy’s qualification standard.

AML3D adds that a successful Cu-Ni testing program has the potential to expand the range of US Defence sector materials and applications the company’s ARCEMY metal 3D printing systems can be used for.

The testing program will begin immediately and is expected to run for 14 to 16 weeks, with work carried out at AML3D’s facility in Adelaide.

“It is exciting to see this acceleration of further alloy testing and validation of AML3D’s ARCEMY metal 3D printing technology within the US Defence sector,” AML3D interim CEO Sean Ebert says.

“The contract has the potential to cast a far wider net over parts that can be made for the US Navy using our technology. The positive implications for expanding our scope to Cu-Ni alloy parts is significant.

“This new validation program is further evidence of AML3D developing a long-term, strategic partnership with key stakeholders within the US Navy’s submarine program.”

Ebert adds that this latest work with the US Navy is likely to provide a template for entering the other defence markets of the AUKUS alliance over the coming years.