Production and Characterization of Additively Manufactured Steel Structures for Large Caliber Munitions
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) has the potential to revolutionize munitions manufacturing, offering advantages such as rapid transition from prototype to volume production, faster material release, and potential for reduced manufacturing cost. Ultimately the technique offers the potential to realize the ultimate objective of in-theater manufacturing. AM techniques also offer inherent processing opportunities whereby the process may enable unique functionality (e.g. controlled fracture, functional gradient designs). Thus, the benefits of AM to munitions manufacturing are clear. To realize these benefits, however, significant research and development is required. One of the challenges in this regard is the printing/fabrication of large metallic structures for munitions applications. As such, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSMT) will conduct research in the production and characterization of additively manufactured steel structures for munitions applications. The primary objectives of this effort are to (i) develop the process and capability for AM of representative geometries for large caliber munitions (e.g., ~6 in. diameter, 30 in. length), and (ii) develop the necessary process technology for AM of high performance steels, with controlled fracture characteristics, commonly used in artillery applications. To accomplish the project objectives, three primary research tasks will be completed: (1) perform AM of representative geometries of large caliber munitions (i.e., ~6 in. diameter, 30 in. length) using directed energy laser powder deposition (DED), while employing standard high carbon steel alloy feedstock powder; (2) develop high performance steel AM feedstock powder designed to replicate properties of a high carbon-high silicon low alloy forged steel with controlled fracture characteristics; and (3) conduct AM of high performance artillery steel and establish the influence of AM process parameters on the resulting “as-built” microstructure. The proposed effort is expected to make a significant contribution toward realizing the benefits of AM in munitions manufacturing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 30, 2020
- Source ID
- N001741910027
Entities
People
- Grant Crawford
Organizations
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- United States Navy