Lockheed Martin expands 3D printing manufacturing capacity in Texas

Lockheed Martin has expanded its production area for additive manufacturing in Grand Prairie, Texas, by around 1,500 square meters. It is now home to some of the largest 3D printers in the region. In addition, heat treatment systems and testing procedures have been integrated. This investment should help to produce complex metal components faster and more cost-effectively for various product lines.

According to the company, new designs are tested virtually early in the development process to minimize risks and speed up production. “We continue to invest in AM technology to offer our customers added value. It allows our engineers to quickly integrate new designs and efficiently bring them to the manufacturing floor,” said Tom Carrubba, Vice President of Production Operations at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. AM also creates modular designs that are economical for both small and large quantities.

Additive manufacturing makes it possible to realize complex geometries in a single work step. This reduces processing time and material consumption. In addition, components are produced that were previously difficult or impossible to manufacture. The company also uses 3D printing to save weight, optimize flow paths in hydraulic components or manufacture complete assemblies from just a few parts. This approach leads to greater flexibility in product development and shortens delivery times.

“As part of our 1LMX digitization initiative, we use AM in the early design phases to reduce technical risks,” explained Hector Sandoval, Lockheed Martin Fellow. “It also improves the performance of our products and reduces development and delivery times.” The company has also been able to demonstrate that AM parts often meet requirements faster and more cost-effectively than traditionally manufactured components in critical applications such as missiles or hypersonic projects.