Key Takeaways
- America Makes announces winners of JAQS-SQ and PADAM project calls, totaling $10.5 million in funding
- The projects aim to enhance additive manufacturing (AM) quality control for aerospace and expand defense industrial base capabilities
- The University of Waterloo conducts research on 3D printing technology, including its applications in aerospace and healthcare
- 3D printed chairs and contact lenses demonstrate the versatility of additive manufacturing
Introduction to America Makes Project Calls
America Makes, in collaboration with the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM), has announced the winners of the Joint Additive Qualification for Sustainment – Supplier Qualification (JAQS-SQ) project call, worth $10.5 million in funding. This initiative, supported by the Office of the Under Secretary of War, Manufacturing Technology Office (OSW ManTech), aims to expand defense industrial base (DIB) capabilities and strengthen manufacturing readiness.
Enhancing Additive Manufacturing Quality Control
The JAQS-SQ project focuses on unified training and requirements to qualify laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and directed energy deposition (DED) suppliers. This effort builds on the original JAQS-SQ project, with a specific emphasis on enhancing additive manufacturing quality control for aerospace applications. By standardizing supplier qualifications, the project seeks to increase the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies in the aerospace industry.
Comparison of Additive Manufacturing Technologies
| Technology | Description | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) | A powder bed fusion process that uses a laser to melt and fuse metal powders | High precision, fast build speeds, and low material waste |
| Directed Energy Deposition (DED) | A process that uses a focused beam of energy to melt and deposit metal onto a substrate | High deposition rates, low material waste, and ability to repair complex geometries |
Research and Applications
The University of Waterloo is conducting research on 3D printing technology, exploring its applications in aerospace, healthcare, and other industries. For example, 3D printed contact lenses and chairs demonstrate the versatility of additive manufacturing. These innovative products showcase the potential of 3D printing to transform various sectors, from healthcare to consumer goods.
Bottom Line
The America Makes project calls and research initiatives demonstrate the growing importance of additive manufacturing in the aerospace and defense industries. By enhancing quality control, expanding supplier capabilities, and exploring new applications, these efforts aim to increase the adoption of 3D printing technologies and drive innovation in various sectors. With a total funding of $10.5 million, the JAQS-SQ project is poised to make a significant impact on the future of additive manufacturing.