Additive Manufacturing in Action: New Use Cases in Defense and Nuclear Energy

  • Public Spend Forum

    • Two recent announcements highlight the U.S. government’s commitment to advancing additive manufacturing (AM), a transformative technology that is reshaping industries from defense to energy. The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) have both unveiled initiatives that demonstrate the growing role of AM in solving complex challenges and driving innovation.

    New Use Cases for Additive Manufacturing: Fighter Jet Parts and Nuclear Energy Systems

    The DLA announced its first competitive contract for additive manufacturing, focusing on integrating AM into its logistics operations. This contract aims to establish a reliable supply chain for 3D-printed components used in military equipment. By leveraging AM, the DLA can produce parts on demand for aircraft such as the F-15, reducing lead times and costs while enhancing resilience. This capability is particularly critical in supporting operational readiness and ensuring access to mission-critical components during supply chain disruptions.

    Meanwhile, LLNL researchers are exploring next-generation 3D printing technologies to support the development of nuclear fusion energy systems. Their work focuses on creating high-precision components capable of withstanding the extreme conditions found in fusion reactors. By combining advanced materials with innovative AM techniques, LLNL’s efforts aim to overcome some of the most significant technical barriers to realizing fusion as a viable energy source. This research highlights the potential for AM to play a pivotal role in groundbreaking advanced manufacturing use cases.

    These announcements underscore the expanding use cases for additive manufacturing across industries. From defense logistics to cutting-edge energy research, AM is enabling new levels of efficiency, precision, and adaptability. As the technology matures, its applications will only continue to grow, offering solutions to challenges in manufacturing, supply chain management, and beyond.

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