Navy using 3-D printers on ships to produce custom parts
Posted: Dec 27, 2015 8:55 AM EST
Updated: Dec 27, 2015 10:30 AM EST
NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - The U.S. Navy is using 3-D printers on some ships to produce parts needed during deployment.
The Virginian-Pilot reports that fabrication labs have been placed on the aircraft carrier Truman and amphibious assault ship Kearsarge. Both ships are based out of Norfolk and currently deployed to the Middle East.
The labs consist of two 3-D printers, a desktop computer and a flat-screen monitor with a wireless keyboard and mouse. Sailors on the Truman, which deployed in November, have already created custom dust caps and a wrench using the equipment.
Cmdr. Brady Drennan says the goal is to make the Navy more self-sufficient when at sea. Petty Officer 2nd Class Raymond Lee says the possibilities for the printer are "endless."
http://www.wvnstv.com/story/30834616/navy-using-3-d-printers-on-ships-to-produce-custom-parts
