Snowbird Technologies and Meltio have unveiled a next-generation containerised hybrid manufacturing system designed to produce and repair critical components directly at the point of need for defence applications.
The solution combines Snowbird’s deployable SAMM Tech platform with the Meltio Engine Blue, creating a ruggedised manufacturing cell that integrates additive and subtractive processes within a transportable container. Designed for rapid deployment, the system enables military personnel to manufacture, repair and replace components in remote and austere environments, reducing reliance on traditional supply chains.
Compatible with existing military logistics infrastructure, the platform is engineered to operate in challenging land and maritime conditions. It supports a wide range of industrial metals, including aluminium, titanium and marine-grade bronze, allowing the production and repair of structural and functional components essential to defence and naval operations.
The hybrid system combines metal and polymer processing capabilities while providing the safety, reliability and flexibility required for deployed environments. By bringing manufacturing closer to the point of use, it helps reduce lead times, minimise material waste and improve operational readiness.
The collaboration builds on proven field experience. Snowbird’s technology has already demonstrated its value during naval operations, including the repair of a reverse osmosis pump aboard a US Navy vessel, restoring freshwater generation capabilities within hours and avoiding an early return to port.
“This collaboration further validates the role of laser-wire directed energy deposition technology in demanding defence environments,” says Scott Morse, chief executive of Snowbird Technologies. “By integrating the Meltio Engine Blue into our next-generation SAMM Tech platform, we can deliver reliable hybrid manufacturing where traditional infrastructure is unavailable.”
Gabriel Ortiz, Americas Channel Manager at Meltio, adds: “Defence organisations require manufacturing solutions that are reliable, flexible and deployable. This collaboration demonstrates how additive manufacturing can strengthen operational readiness in the field.”
More information www.meltio3d.com
