Scaling Up of 3D Printed Castings

Objective:

This project involving MELD Manufacturing specializes in additive manufacturing, coating applications, component repair, metal joining, and custom metal alloy and metal matrix composite billet and part fabrication. They are using a new technology called MELDing to 3D print metal parts up to 36 inches to date, with the ability to increase to several meters over time. NASSCO would like to lay down the groundwork for 3D printing structural hull castings using MELD technologies as the avenue. NASSCO will work with MELD to assess feasibility and potential for scaling up the technology to increase the scale of printed castings. Main elements of this effort include scaling up existing hardware designs to evaluate ability to deposit material at a higher rate, demonstrate printing capability in aluminum to keep costs down, and identify potential nozzle head materials that can be procured and tested for longevity in a future project. The material AH36 will be used in future projects when more time and budget is available to support the necessary research and development.