B. Lee
Fonon Technologies,
United States
Keywords: additive manufacturing, 3D metal printing, groundbreaking advancement
Summary:
Metal 3D printing has gained increasing traction with the Federal government and Department of Defense (DOD) in recent years. Many agencies, industries, academia and U.S. allies are designing and testing in the additive manufacturing (AM) space to simplify highly complex applications. However, the manufacturing process is highly complex leading to inconsistent results, poor quality in parts material density, and an extremely slow turnaround time. Standard 3D metal printing systems operate with preset parameters set by the manufacturer regardless of the metal type or needs of the end user being considered. The DOD published its strategy on additive manufacturing in 2021 stating it will “enable a more agile, adaptable and aligned defense supply base to outpace adversarial threats” (Washington, 2021). According to the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the DOD’s goal is to “integrate and promote the use of additive manufacturing to modernize weapon systems, increase materiel readiness, and enhance warfighter capabilities” (Washington, 2021). Since AM is a versatile technology that delivers advantages across multiple defense applications, the most precise and accurate technology will ensure the DOD achieves greater operational performance and overcome deployed and forward-operating challenges. Fonon Technologies has developed a groundbreaking advancement in 3D additive manufacturing, called Bulk-to-Shape (BTS™) Transformational Technology. BTS™ is the result of proprietary intellectual property with the latest developments in 3D metal printing, reinforced by a family of patents from the Lawrence Livermore National Security Lab. This innovative approach represents a paradigm shift in metal printing systems, enabling highly precise production and rapid turnaround times that reduce costs and lead times for hundreds of types of parts and components. Most importantly, our technology employs an application-centered approach focusing on the end-user’s specific requirements, which will enhance the operational efficiency of end users. A key feature of BTS™ is its production of uniform powder density, which results in improved consistency, enhanced material properties, and reduced operational costs. Our technology will accelerate technological dominance, ensuring that warfighters’ needs are met swiftly and effectively. Another important feature is its design flexibility. End users will be allowed to create complex and innovative components that are tailored to their precise field requirements and complex production needs. This cannot be accomplished by using traditional manufacturing processes. Faster development, shorter lead times, less resource-intensive production, and high recyclability of materials contribute to reducing waste and minimizing carbon footprint following the environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles. Fonon Technologies’ BTS™ technology represents a transformative step in additive manufacturing, and when fully commercialized, will enable the DOD to optimize existing part designs with unparalleled precision, efficiency and consistency. BTS™ exemplifies Fonon Technologies’ expanding portfolio of next generation technologies supported by our patents, licenses, and proprietary intellectual property. By pioneering our cutting-edge 3D metal printing technology, we aim to aid the DOD in “modernizing the Nation’s defense and increasing materiel readiness” (Washington, 2021). Washington, D. (2021). Department of Defense Additive Manufacturing Strategy. https://www.cto.mil/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/dod-additive-manufacturing-strategy.pdf