SPEED3D, an Australian metal 3D printer manufacturer is handling an AUD$1.5 m project for the Royal Australian Navy. The amount of the project is equivalent to USD$1 m. In a span of two years, the government will support a pilot test of SPEE3D metal 3D printing technology. The aim of the project is to streamline watching vessel keeping for the force.
“This high-tech machinery enables metal components to be produced quickly and efficiently, meaning our ships can get back on the water without delay.” The Minister for Defence Industry for Australia, Melissa Price said.
“This capability is a prime example of Australian innovation at its best and supports the Government’s unprecedented shipbuilding and sustainment plans.” She added.
SPEED3D maximizes metal cold splash technology to make near-net-shape metal components. A growing 3D printing modality, cool splash is provided as a quick choice to laser-based metal 3D printing procedure. By utilizing compressed air for powder deposition, the method is also affordable in several cases. This is because it does away with the use of costly inert gases.
The company began in 2015 and it has since then released three systems. The first one was LightSPEE3D. The system has a 350mm by 300mm build. After that, the company released the bigger WarpSPEE3D with a 1000mm x 700mm build. Recently, the firm released SPEE3Dcell which integrates with a heat operation oven. The system also integrates with 3 axis CNC milling machine with a metal additive manufacturing system.
For its Royal Australian Navy project, the company is chosen WarpSPEE3D system
Aluminum and copper are two elements that may currently be utilized on the WarpSPEE3D. Aluminum is the most popular element for maritime apps. The element is anticipated to be the material of preference for the Navy. This is because of its lightweight nature, easy fabrication, corrosion, and fatigue resistance qualities.
All through the scouting project with CDU and AMA, SPEE3D aims to notably raise component supply to the Navy. This is compared to parts present in a normal supply sequence. The test is anticipated to be a world-first in the keeping of Navy patrol vessel.
From early 2018, the Royal Australian Navy has been operating weekly workshops to teach its engineers in 3D printing in the purpose of developing its chain supply.
3D printing is demonstrating to be an exceptionally helpful means of distant part supply. It is also proving to be a helpful means of support for armed forces across the globe.
