In a technological and international collaboration milestone, the Spanish company Meltiumspecialized in metal 3D printing technology, and the American Snowbird Technologies have installed a innovative 3D printer aboard the US Navy amphibious assault ship Somerset (LPD-25).
This development, allows essential spare parts and components to be manufactured on board, marking a significant advance in the self-sufficiency of military vessels.
Technology implemented in Somerset combines Snowbird’s SAMM Tech system with wire-directed energy deposition (DED) print head developed by Meltio. This head allows the additive manufacturing of metal parts using materials such as stainless steel, titanium, inconel, nickel, copper and aluminum, among others.
The solution is integrated with a CNC system controlled by Fanucwhich digitizes the components, generating a computerized design that is sent to the machine for production. During the Rimpac 2024 military exercisesSomerset used this technology for reverse osmosis pump repairan essential component for the production of drinking water on board.
These maneuvers, organized by the United States Indo-Pacific Command, are the largest maritime exercise in the worldbringing together 29 nations, 40 ships and more than 25,000 people.
Meltio: a global innovation from Linares
Founded in 2019 and based in Linares (Jaén), Meltio has managed to position itself as a world leader in metallic 3D printing using laser wire. The company exports more than 90% of its production to markets such as the United States, India, China, Japan, Germany, Italy, Brazil and Mexico.
Likewise, the company collaborates with a dozen software companies to boost additive manufacturing and robotics. Recently, Meltio joined TEDAE, the association that brings together the main Spanish defense, security and space companies.
A commitment to self-sufficiency and efficiency
The Somerset is not the first US Navy ship to incorporate Meltio technology. In 2022, the Spanish company collaborated with Phillips Corporation to install its laser metal deposition head on the amphibious assault ship Bataan (LHD-5). This system combined additive and subtractive manufacturing capabilities by integrating the Meltio headstock with a Haas computer numerical control TM-1 milling machine.
The incorporation of metal 3D printers on board US Navy ships responds to of the objectives main: increase the self-sufficiency of deployed vessels and reduce waiting times associated with the supply chain. This technology allows crews to manufacture critical parts on site, reducing dependence on ground bases or external suppliers.
He Somerseta San Antonio-class amphibious assault ship, is designed to transport more than 800 soldiers over long distances and has a hangar with capacity to accommodate up to four helicopters. With the recent implementation of Meltio technology, its operational capacity is strengthened and its autonomy in prolonged missions is reinforced.
