#USA #3D Printing #Fremont #U.S. Navy #Velo3D

Velo3D Partners with U.S. Navy

In a significant step towards modernizing maritime operations, Velo3D, Inc. has entered into a noteworthy partnership with the U.S. Navy, marking a pivotal moment in the realm of additive manufacturing. This collaboration focuses on the development of copper nickel alloy (CuNi) components using Velo3D’s cutting-edge 3D printing technology, specifically tailored for the unique demands of naval applications.

Contract Overview

The contract, valued at an impressive $6 million, emphasizes the Navy's commitment to enhancing its Maritime Industrial Base Program. Velo3D will provide its state-of-the-art large-format Sapphire XC printer, enabling the qualification and production of CuNi parts that are critical for naval operations. This innovative approach is anticipated to significantly expedite ship repairs, which is crucial for maintaining fleet readiness.

Advantages of CuNi in Naval Applications

CuNi is highly regarded in the maritime sector due to its exceptional resistance to seawater corrosion. Traditional manufacturing methods for this alloy often run into challenges, including extensive rework and increased costs. Velo3D's Rapid Production Solution (RPS) presents a more efficient alternative, streamlining the manufacturing process and improving shipbuilding timelines. The collaboration promises to enhance the U.S. Navy's supply chain resiliency by mitigating delays caused by conventional casting methods.

Technological Innovation

Velo3D’s RPS leverages advanced systems and expertise to enable the scalable production of mission-critical naval parts. According to Arun Jeldi, CEO of Velo3D, the company is proud to be the first U.S.-based original equipment manufacturer (OEM) offering domestically developed additive manufacturing solutions tailored for CuNi. This partnership underscores Velo3D's commitment to providing faster delivery of high-reliability components that meet the evolving demands of defense operations.

Domestic Collaboration

The qualification process for CuNi is being executed by Velo3D's dedicated development team based in Fremont, California. Moreover, the collaboration involves a domestic supplier of metal powder, ensuring that the U.S. Navy maintains independence within its supply chain, an increasingly vital factor in modern military operations.

Features of the Sapphire XC Printer

The Sapphire XC printer stands out with its capability to produce parts measuring up to 600 mm in diameter and 550 mm in height. Its ability to qualify CuNi parts represents a significant leap forward in production capacity, allowing for larger and more complex components to be manufactured with unprecedented precision. The technology also boasts superior fidelity printing and in-situ process monitoring, which elevates the standards for quality assurance.

Cybersecurity and Military Applications

Velo3D’s systems adhere to Department of Defense (DoD) cybersecurity requirements, facilitating secure connections to military networks. This ensures that all critical manufacturing operations are conducted with the utmost integrity and security, which is paramount for national defense.

Supporting the Maritime Industrial Base Program

The partnership reflects a concerted effort to revitalize and modernize ship maintenance practices within the Navy, targeting the elimination of repair delays that can hinder operational readiness. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Maritime Industrial Base Program, which was established to stabilize and expand maritime industrial capabilities while addressing various challenges in workforce and capacity.

About Velo3D

Velo3D is a trailblazer in the field of metal 3D printing. The company has redefined additive manufacturing by overcoming historical limitations that have often confined this technology to niche applications. Its comprehensive solution, which includes the Flow print preparation software, the Sapphire printer family, and the Assure quality control system, empowers industries such as aerospace, energy, and more to innovate exponentially. Velo3D continues to collaborate with leading names in the industry, solidifying its reputation as a game-changer in additive manufacturing.

For more details on Velo3D’s contributions and advancements, visit Velo3D.com.