Thermwood LSAM research agreement
Thermwood's LSAM machines use a two-step, ‘near-net shape’ approach which combines both additive and subtractive processes.
Manufacturing company, Thermwood has signed a formal cooperative research and development deal with a branch of the US Naval Air Systems Command.
The agreement with Fleet Readiness Center East, located at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., will focus on Thermwood’s Large Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM) technology.
Thermwood’s LSAM machines are large-sized industrial additive manufacturing systems available in sizes up to 100 feet long. These printers use a two-step, ‘near-net shape’ approach which combines both additive and subtractive processes. This means parts are first printed in carbon graphite filled thermoplastic, slightly larger than their desired size but in a speedier process, and then CNC machined to the preferred shape. The LSAM machinery consolidates printing and machining on the same machine using dual gantries. Dual controls allow print and trim operations to be performed simultaneously, each on different ends of the table.
When the LSAM machine was first unveiled in September last year, Thermwood Founder, CEO and Chairman Ken Susnjara claimed the system would transform manufacturing. This partnership with a branch of the US armed forces has him equally enthusiastic.
“We are excited to work with the FRC East and are confident that, working together, we can achieve significant advances and results,” said Susnjara. “I am confident that this programme will benefit us both while further advancing the state of the art.”
Fleet Readiness Center East, based in North Carolina, is a service provider specialising in the support of Marine Corps aircraft, engines and components. According to FRC East’s website, it is the only source of repair within the continental United States for many jet engines and rotary wing engines, as well as turbofan vectored thrust engines.
As per the agreement with Thermwood, the two parties will explore how the LSAM machinery can benefit the US Naval aircraft. Meanwhile, Thermwood, who added thermographic imaging to the systems’ repertoire in November, will receive feedback on how to advance the technology.
