HII partners with 3D Systems to accelerate 3D printing into shipbuilding

Huntington Ingalls Industries announced yesterday it would partner with 3D Systems to accelerate the adoption of metal 3D printing into the shipbuilding industry, according to a company statement.

"The joint effort is expected to support future qualification and certification programs necessary to implement advanced manufacturing technology for the U.S. Navy," the statement said.

Further, as part of the agreement, 3D Systems delivered to Newport News Shipbuilding a high-performance metal 3D printer which is "capable of making three-dimensional, marine-based, alloy parts for castings or other fabricated parts, such as valves, housings and brackets," the statement said.