Concurrent Technologies expands Additive Manufacturing in defence with AFRL contract
August 14, 2024
Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC), Johnstown, Pennsylvania, USA, has been selected by the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to develop an Additive Manufacturing machine especially suited for US Department of Defense (DoD) advanced weapon system part manufacturing. The $4.4 million contract, phase two of the project, aims to overcome the limitations of current AM equipment and enhance the production of longer parts for critical defence applications.
The current process of manufacturing large, advanced weapon system components involves joining multiple smaller AM parts, which introduces challenges such as strength issues, inconsistent mechanical properties, and limited design flexibility. By increasing the capabilities of AM for DoD applications, CTC seeks to eliminate these drawbacks and streamline the manufacturing process.
“CTC is committed to advancing manufacturing capabilities and supporting the defense industry’s critical needs,” said Edward J Sheehan, Jr, CTC President and CEO. “The technical work we are performing for this project includes elements of CTC’s full-service portfolio of AM capabilities including design, testing, post processing, machining, and qualification.”
Under the contract, CTC will finalise the machine design, install the equipment, conduct qualification tests, and additively manufactured near- or full-height representative geometry in an effort to ensure optimal performance.
“We are proud of AFRL’s continued trust in our ability to provide value on this important effort,” said Ken Sabo, Senior Director, Manufacturing.
