Spare parts for vehicles, equipment, and ship systems are often available in operational areas only after significant delays. To close this gap, Snowbird Technologies and Meltio have announced the next expansion stage of a containerized manufacturing cell. Meltio’s Engine Blue, a laser wire system for metal additive manufacturing, is being integrated into Snowbird’s SAMM-Tech platform.
The solution is based on hybrid manufacturing: Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition (DED) builds geometries layer by layer, after which a subtractive unit performs the precision finishing. Inside the ruggedized container is a gantry-mounted cell that combines wire-and-laser material deposition with milling and drilling in a continuous workflow. For users, this is particularly relevant for function-critical surfaces such as sealing and fit seats or hole patterns, which typically require post-processing in DED processes. According to the companies, the platform is also designed for modular expansion and is intended to be transportable using existing military logistics and quick to deploy.
“This collaboration further validates the role of laser-wire directed energy deposition technology in the most demanding defense environments. By integrating the Meltio Engine Blue into our next-generation SAMM Tech platform, we are demonstrating how laser-wireDED can deliver reliable, repeatable hybrid manufacturing at the point of need, enabling critical repair and production where traditional supply chains and infrastructure are unavailable,” said Scott Morse, Chief Executive at Snowbird Technologies.
The suppliers cite supported materials including aluminum, titanium, and seawater-resistant bronze—alloys used in structural and functional components of land and naval systems. Snowbird points to a deployment aboard a ship of the U.S. Navy, where a reverse osmosis pump was repaired within a few hours, allowing fresh water production to resume and avoiding an early return to port.
“Defense organizations require manufacturing solutions that are reliable, flexible, and deployable,” said Gabriel Ortiz, America’s Channel Manager at Meltio. “Integrating the Meltio Engine Blue into Snowbird’s containerized system demonstrates how our technology can support expeditionary operations, helping defense users strengthen supply chain resilience and maintain operational readiness in the most challenging environments.”
The system is scheduled to be presented at the MILAM Conference from February 3 to 5, 2026, in Tampa, booth #125.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
3DPresso is a weekly newsletter that links to the most exciting global stories from the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry.
