Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies Global 3D Printing System Boosts Military Manufacturing Capabilities

Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies Global’s Ambit Xtrude polymer composite 3D printing system is pellet-fed material extrusion system can be integrated into CNC machines, providing up to a 2,000-fold increase in volumetric deposition rates compared to typical desktop polymer extrusion printers. This capability supports the rapid production of meter-scale “near-net” parts, tooling, jigs and fixtures, which can then be finished using the milling functions of the same machine. The changeover between 3D printing and machining takes just minutes, according to the company.

The Ambit Xtrude is designed for ease of use and seamless integration. During a recent military exercise, integration into an existing navy-owned CNC machine was completed within a day, enabling the printing of drone boat hulls at speeds exceeding one per hour. After minimal training, service members demonstrated proficiency in production, highlighting the system’s accessibility for additive manufacturing applications.

Dr. Jason Jones oversaw the integration at the Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education (CAMRE) Advanced Manufacturing Facility at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. “The dual purposing of CNC equipment for additive manufacturing and milling offers ease of use with significant cost and space effectiveness — key factors for success in this naval exercise,” says Jones. Within the first day of use, multiple military personnel were trained, and output included a drone boat hull segment and a customized carrying case insert for protecting a critical metal part.

“As with every advanced manufacturing exercise, the time allotted for learning new equipment is extremely compressed. Being able to provide an additional polymer capability to an existing machine and control panel that our service members and students know well reduces the time required to deliver urgent readiness solutions,” says Lt. Col. Michael Radigan with the Marine Innovation Unit, who supported CAMRE’s exercise in collaboration with Fleetwerx.

Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies Global participated in this operational exercise with the Naval Postgraduate School and joint force service members, contributing to advancements in military manufacturing readiness.