3D Systems signs research agreement with Savannah River National Laboratory

3D Systems has entered a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), covering additive manufacturing for advanced energy generation and national security applications. The work will concentrate primarily on SRNL’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC), where 3D Systems equipment had already been installed alongside facility upgrades and resident AM specialists.

The two organizations set out joint work in materials development, equipment improvements, artificial intelligence and machine learning applied to process improvement, manufacturing systems, cybersecurity, and workforce training.

Nuclear energy is the stated priority, with specific focus on high-temperature nickel-based superalloys and radiation-tolerant materials for heat exchangers with internal cooling channels, reactor internals, pumps and valves—components that are widely considered difficult or impossible to produce by conventional methods. Aerospace and defense and environmental technologies have also been highlighted by 3D Systems as markets the work could reach.

3D Systems tied the timing to renewed U.S. investment in nuclear power and advanced reactor designs, citing International Energy Agency projections of roughly 40 gigawatts of small modular reactor (SMR) capacity by 2050 under current policies, or up to 120 gigawatts in accelerated scenarios.

“We look forward to partnering with SRNL at the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative and deploying 3D Systems’ leading AM technologies,” said Jeff Graves, President and Chief Executive Officer at 3D Systems. “This agreement demonstrates the impact and importance of high-quality 3D printing materials and technologies on key industrial markets, particularly energy and national security, and on developing the skilled workforce those markets require.”

“This collaboration positions SRNL and 3D Systems to deliver groundbreaking additive manufacturing technologies, strengthen U.S. manufacturing competitiveness, and drive forward the next era of AM innovation,” said Roderick Jackson, Associate Laboratory Director for Science, Energy and Innovation at SRNL.

“This agreement underscores SRNL’s commitment to building world-class research capabilities, leveraging partnerships to enhance its competitive edge and solidify its presence as a leader in AM technologies,” added G. Jeremy Leong, Director of the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative at SRNL.