U.S. Navy Approves Rapid 3D-Printing Standards To Boost Submarine Fleet Readiness

U.S Navy has introduced new technical guidelines this month to integrate 3D printing into the design, manufacturing, maintenance and repair of its submarines.

Additive manufacturing is faster, cheaper and more reliable than traditional supply chains and production methods, where parts are first produced and then tested.

It also requires several approvals and changes in design, which increase costs and delays in construction.

In 3D printing, changes can be made simultaneously, and expenses are significantly reduced, which makes it perfect for incorporation into U.S defense and shipbuilding strategy.

According to the Project Peculiar Document (PPD) 802-8436658, the Navy will replace parts, earlier built using conventional techniques, with those that would be 3D printed.

Vice Admiral Robert Gaucher,  Director of Submarine Programs, said that the shift is vital to unlock 21st-century tech for the benefit of the country’s defence sector so submarines can be built rapidly and delivered on schedule.

He also added that additive manufacturing allows the sector to rise above the supply chain issues and shortage of parts and reduces the time it takes to upgrade the naval fleet, while allowing engineers, shipbuilders and suppliers to ramp up production.

3D printed metallic parts are already performing well onboard the Navy’s USS Washington and USS Nevada, and incorporating them in submarine programs could help achieve similar results.

The Navy also highlighted that switching to 3D printed components does not mean a compromise on quality or safety since additive manufacturing parts would be subjected to meet the quality control requirements of the Navy, along with rigorous tests and inspections.

The Submarine Industrial Base Program Office’s team involved in manufacturing is working to employ 3D printing to strengthen the supply chain and reduce dependency on suppliers and maximise the availability of 3D printed parts for all kinds of vessels in the fleet.