US's ambitious plans. The emergence of 3D printers as vital tools
1:22 PM EDT, October 30, 2023
The United States Navy is increasingly turning to 3D printers as a way to manufacture parts for submarines, a strategy seen by many as the only viable way to maintain production schedules, according to the Defense Express website.
Reliance on parts created by 3D printers is seen as increasingly critical for the US military to ensure uninterrupted production, repair, and maintenance of its nuclear submarines. These are not minor components, but crucial parts integral to the safety of the machine.
In communication with Defense One, Rear Admiral Jonathan Rucker from the Pentagon clarified that the US Navy is in need of a surge in production. “When it comes to ship components such as valves and connecting elements, we have not been able to meet the demand necessary for the construction of our ships,” said Rucker.
Among the parts, 3D printers are expected to produce onboard US submarines are valves, a key component ensuring smooth operation. Defense Express has emphasized the faith placed in 3D printing technology. "It is not only being deployed in military equipment, but also in submarines which have significant reliability requirements" we learn from their report.
Integrating 3D Printer Parts into Columbia-Class Submarines
3D printed components will be used in the US's new Columbia class submarines, which are set to replace the Ohio class. The former is capable of deploying submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM), forming the backbone of American nuclear security.
Plans indicate that the Ohio class will be replaced by the Columbia class starting from 2027. These submarines will feature a submerged displacement of over 22,046 short tons, measuring approximately 557 feet in length and 43 feet wide. Each Columbia class vessel will be staffed by a 155-member crew of officers and sailors. The primary weapon of these submarines will be the Trident II D-5 missile launchers, which weigh over 127,868 lbs and can attain speeds up to 13,048 mph. This formidable weapon has a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles (approximately 4,600 miles) when fully loaded.
