Bechtel Plant Machinery Picks Velo3D Metal Additive Solution

Velo3D, Inc. reports that Bechtel Plant Machinery Inc. (BPMI) has selected a fully integrated metal additive manufacturing solution from the company to produce parts for the U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. The Sapphire XC large-format printer, calibrated for stainless steel 415, will be operated by ATI at its new additive manufacturing facility outside Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Earlier this year, BPMI awarded a contract to ATI to support development of engineered part solutions for advanced manufacturing methods including metal additive manufacturing. The partners will use the printer to produce parts previously produced through casting, reducing lead times for critical parts, and streamlining their supply chain. 

Velo3D’s technology was developed in the United States and includes a fully integrated software and hardware solution. 

“BPMI and ATI’s progressive approach to 3D printing is extremely forward-thinking and this new, revolutionary facility will significantly augment the U.S. Navy’s supply chain for maintenance, repair, and operations,” says Brad Kreger, CEO at Velo3D. “Both companies are early adopters of metal 3D printing and innovators in the manufacturing industry. We look forward to working with them as they support the U.S. Navy’s fleet, including its aging vessels.”

The U.S. Navy currently operates approximately 300 vessels, many of which were commissioned decades ago. They, along with the U.S. Department of Defense, have actively incorporated additive manufacturing. ATI’s new secure facility, along with Velo3D’s fully integrated solution, are intended to help advance the Navy's maintenance and operational capabilities, according to Velo3D.

“Printers with larger build volumes and the ability to print with less support structures are ideal for U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program applications,” says Nathan Weiderspahn, BPMI executive manager, Industrial Base Management. “This additive manufacturing technology will greatly support our efforts in delivering new technology to the U.S. Navy and helping maintain its fleet of ships.” 

“ATI will be able to more easily additively produce complex parts with fewer support structures, at lower angles, and larger sizes than ever before,” says Joe Thompson, general manager of ATI Additive Manufacturing Products. “This enables us to broaden the scope of possible part designs for our defense and aerospace customers, enabling higher performance and better quality.”

BPMI’s new Sapphire XC printer is a printer from Velo3D calibrated for stainless steel 415.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.