SBIR/STTR Award attributes
Maintaining the maritime supply chain is a complex and challenging task, compounded by the long service length of various vessels and systems. Many components incorporate cast and/or forged components that require expensive and complex tooling which increases significantly the cost and lead times associated with procurement of components that are obsolete or non-stocked. This can lead to the necessity for cannibalizing components from other vessels that are inactive or undergoing service, with negative effects on readiness and fleet strength. Additive manufacturing provides a pathway for producing single parts or small production runs of cast and or forged components without the need for tooling. This can drastically reduce lead times and lower procurement costs. This effort will demonstrate the use of AM and conventional subtractive manufacturing to produce the various sub-components of a bronze valve and will result in a Source Approval Request for MRL to produce this part.
