Key Takeaways
- America Makes announces winners of JAQS-SQ and PADAM project calls, totaling $10.5 million in funding
- The projects focus on additive manufacturing quality control for aerospace and expanding defense industrial base capabilities
- Research from the University of Waterloo explores 3D printing applications
- 3D printed chairs demonstrate innovative design and functionality
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 two project calls: Joint Additive Qualification for Sustainment – Supplier Qualification (JAQS-SQ – Groups 2 & 3) and PADAM. The JAQS-SQ project, funded 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.
Project Details and Funding
The JAQS-SQ project has received $10.5 million in funding, with a specific focus on unified training and requirements to qualify laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and directed energy deposition (DED) suppliers. This project builds on the original JAQS-SQ initiative, which aimed to develop a standardized approach to additive manufacturing (AM) quality control for the aerospace industry.
Comparison of Additive Manufacturing Technologies
| Technology | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) | High-precision, layer-by-layer printing | Aerospace, automotive, and medical industries |
| Directed Energy Deposition (DED) | High-speed, layer-by-layer printing | Aerospace, automotive, and energy industries |
| Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) | Layer-by-layer printing using melted plastic | Consumer products, prototypes, and models |
Research and Innovation
Research from the University of Waterloo explores the potential of 3D printing in various fields, including aerospace, healthcare, and consumer products. Additionally, innovative designs, such as 3D printed chairs, demonstrate the versatility and functionality of additive manufacturing.
Bottom Line
The announcement of the America Makes project call winners and the ongoing research in additive manufacturing highlight the growing importance of this technology in various industries. With a focus on quality control, standardized training, and innovative applications, the future of additive manufacturing looks promising, with potential benefits including increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved product quality. As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative applications of 3D printing and additive manufacturing in the years to come.