PNSY welds first-ever metal 3D printed submarine component
Copper-nickel flange installed aboard USS Washington marks a dual first for US public shipyards and in-service submarine operations
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) has successfully inspected, tested, and welded the first additive manufactured copper-nickel flange aboard USS Washington. The milestone represents both the first time an AM copper-nickel flange has been welded at a public shipyard and one of its first applications for an in-service submarine.
The initiative originated from a directive issued by Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher, then serving as commander of Submarine Forces and direct reporting portfolio manager for submarines.
PNSY’s engineering and planning material support division identified a potential application for AM materials to address an operational need aboard Washington. The shipyard coordinated with the maritime industrial base’s center of excellence to acquire the 3D printed component and then deliver it to the shipyard’s receipt inspection division.
The flange underwent thorough testing and inspections to certify it met all technical requirements, while a team of engineering and trade experts simultaneously completed a full weld qualification on the new material. The process has been described as “an unprecedented level of collaboration across multiple departments”.
“The unique nature of this momentous achievement is a testament to the strong teaming and innovation that PNSY is known for,” stated Capt. Jesse Nice, Shipyard Commander at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. “For the first time, we forged a submarine component that met the fleet’s most rigorous technical specifications. This was the result of one team, with a single mission — getting the job done correctly and safely.”
“Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is leading the organic industrial base in the production and installation of additively manufactured submarine components,” added Capt. Jason Deichler, Commodore of Submarine Squadron TWO.
“This is truly a war fighting enabler and a key component to enhanced undersea readiness.”
