From building drones to creating
replacement parts for a AAVs, Marine Corps Systems Command
is helping Marines stay
abreast of innovative technology through
3D printing. The Marine Corps is using 3D
printing--also known as additive
manufacturing--to reduce maintenance
costs, increase equipment readiness, and
improve combat effectiveness by giving
Marines the capability to repair and
replace individual parts onsite. 3D
printing uses a digital file from a
computer to create three-dimensional
solid objects. An object is created by
laying down multiple layers of material
consecutively until the entire item
matches its digital file. So, instead of
waiting for a manufacturer to build a
replacement part for broken equipment,
Marines can print whatever customized
item they need right away. MARCORSYSCOM's Systems Engineering and Acquisition
Logistics team, for example, recently
repaired and tested an AAV using 3D
printed parts. There are about 30 Marine
units using 3D printers in the field to
create replacement vehicle and weapon
parts. MARCORSYSCOM makes sure
that the 3D printed parts are safe and
certified for use on the systems and
equipment it fields to Marines.
