Application Of Additive Manufacturing In The Field Of National Defense

Additive manufacturing technology has always been widely used in many fields, including marine, aerospace and automotive, with its powerful functions. Of course, it is also increasingly being adopted by defense departments around the world. In fact, it is expected that by 2027, the value of the military 3D printing industry will reach 1.7 billion U.S. dollars.

Considering the demand for faster speed, lighter weight and lower cost of military products, it is undoubtedly the most appropriate to choose additive manufacturing technology to achieve these functions. Some cases of the application of 3D printing technology in the field of national defense in various countries around the world are listed. From these actual cases, we can further see the importance of this technology in national defense.

1. 9-Meter-Long Metal 3D Printer

The U.S. military is convinced of the benefits of additive manufacturing, and in 2021 they have announced that they will build the world's largest metal 3D printer. The U.S. DEVCOM Army Ground Vehicle System Center is manufacturing this giant printer with the help of ASTRO America, Ingersoll Machine Tool, Siemens and the MELD Manufacturing Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center in Rock Island Arsenal. This printer will become part of the seamless body project, and the ultimate task is to print an integrated body for the chariot. It is reported that the project is expected to take about 14 months, and the final printer will be able to print metal parts 30 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 12 feet high (about 9 meters×6 meters×3.6 meters). Although we have no news in this regard recently, the project is likely to be completed in the near future.

2. 3D Printing Runway

Another application in the military and national defense fields comes from ITAMCO (Indiana Technology and Manufacturing Company), which uses additive manufacturing to develop a runway for a military expedition airport. These runway mats are an important part of the Expeditionary Airport (EAF). Their function is to be implemented on weaker ground to allow military aircraft to land and take off. Before that, a portable runway made of aluminum sheet was used, but as it became obsolete, the army needed to find an innovative solution. The M290 3D printer of the German company EOS is used to make lighter and more durable models for the military equipment of the US Air Force.

3. ExOne And Its Military Pod

In order to accelerate the development of a powerful and rugged 3D printing factory pod, ExOne was involved in the implementation of this task after working with multiple partners. Specifically, it involves a $1.6 million Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) contract. In the process, ExOne's Binderjet technology has been used for military purposes due to its speed, flexible materials and ease of operation, which can well meet the military's critical needs. Designed specifically for the military, the 3D printer is said to be able to spray adhesives and more than 20 metals, ceramics and other powdered materials. In addition, the unique case and other features are said to make it ideal for military grade products.