#3DExpress: Metal 3D Printing Repairs for Parts Aboard US Navy Ship

In this week’s breakdown of additive manufacturing news, learn more about the validation of Meltio’s technology for use on a US Navy ship, the USS Somerset. In addition, PUMA has opened a creative center with additive manufacturing facilities and machinery, while 3D Systems is selling its Geomagic Software Portfolio. Then learn more about the new textile fiber from Asahi Kasei and Aquafil and the co-founder of Renishaw who has passed away this week. Happy reading and have a great weekend.

Meltio Technology Aboard US Navy Ships

Spanish company Meltio, which specializes in metal additive manufacturing, has achieved a new milestone by implementing its technology on board the USS Somerset, a US Navy ship. This breakthrough follows the successful installation of its system on the USS Bataan in late 2022. Meltio’s technology, which integrates hybrid metal 3D printing, combines additive and subtractive manufacturing processes in a single system, enabling the fabrication of metal parts aboard military vessels. During Exercise Rimpac 2024, the US Navy used a Meltio head integrated into a robotic arm to produce metal components, validating its effectiveness in a real-world environment on the USS Somerset. This innovation has a major impact on naval logistics, improving readiness and operational flexibility. The implementation was made possible through collaboration with Snowbird Technologies, Meltio’s U.S. business partner, and demonstrates how the company’s additive manufacturing is improving operations in the defense sector.

Photo Credits: Meltio

PUMA Opens Creative Center With 3D Printing Facilities

PUMA announced the opening of its Studio48 in Germany. In this creative center, which covers more than 500 m2, designers and creative professionals will come together to discuss, develop and test creative ideas and innovative concepts. They will have access to sewing machines for processing textiles and leather, 3D printers and dedicated rooms for product testing and exchange. The aim of this new facility is to drive the sustainable growth of the brand by developing products for top-level performance and to strengthen the PUMA brand. “With the new Studio48, we are creating an important tool to improve the quality of our designs and enhance the brand,” says Heiko Desens, Vice President Creative Direction & Innovation at PUMA. “While many of our products are created digitally, Studio48 will be a space for a different kind of creativity, where our designers from different departments can develop ideas together, share best practices, try out new materials and touch and feel the products they want to make.”