- Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) successfully installed the first 3D-printed valve manifold assembly on Enterprise (CVN 80).
- Additive manufacturing reduces lead times and enhances the quality of critical ship components.
- The 1,000-pound, five-foot-long manifold assembly improves efficiency in fluid distribution.
- Collaboration with DM3D Technology enabled advanced 3D printing techniques for the component.
Huntington Ingalls Industries (NYSE: HII) has achieved a major milestone in integrating additive manufacturing at its Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division. For the first time, a 3D-printed valve manifold assembly has been installed on the Enterprise (CVN 80), demonstrating the potential of advanced manufacturing in naval shipbuilding.
Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Lead Times
The use of certified 3D-printed components is revolutionizing shipbuilding by reducing production timelines and improving part quality. The newly installed valve manifold assembly, responsible for distributing fluid to multiple points on the ship, weighs 1,000 pounds and spans five feet in length. This innovation optimizes manufacturing processes, ensuring greater efficiency and precision.
Collaboration and Future Applications
NNS partnered with DM3D Technology to manufacture the manifold body using cutting-edge 3D printing methods. Following its success on Enterprise (CVN 80), similar manifolds will be installed on Doris Miller (CVN 81), replacing traditional casting techniques and minimizing schedule risks.
Expanding Additive Manufacturing Across the Fleet
As a certified supplier for Naval Sea Systems (NAVSEA) platforms, NNS has already installed over 55 additively manufactured parts on both newly constructed and operational vessels. This latest achievement marks a significant expansion in the use of 3D printing, with plans to integrate more than 200 additional components in the coming year.
Innovation Driving the Future of Shipbuilding
Dave Bolcar, NNS vice president of engineering and design, highlighted the rapid evolution of additive manufacturing from a proof-of-concept to a game-changing technology. The successful implementation on Enterprise (CVN 80) sets the stage for broader adoption, reinforcing NNS’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in shipbuilding.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: HII
