The Need for Additive Manufacturing Capabilities in a DoD Depot Repair Environment

DoD repair depots provide a unique opportunity for the implementation of additive manufacturing technologies.  Depots scrap large numbers of components that are worn beyond usable limits due to the limitations of traditional manufacturing technologies used in component repair.  The potential exists for large returns on investment in developing additive repairs for legacy components.  Several opportunities will be presented along with discussion of which additive processes might be suitable for component repair as opposed to new manufacture.  DoD platforms also face logistics hurdles in procuring parts that have been out of production for some years.  The lead-times associated with retooling for and remanufacturing of legacy components can be years in some cases.  This problem is compounded when considering the small lot sizes often required.  Additive manufacturing has the potential to remedy this situation as well, which must be considered when considering the costs of additive parts.