Navantia, through its centre of excellence Navantia COEX Advanced Manufacturing has begun manufacturing an innovative prototype module for ship-based point defence systems at Centro de Innovación de Fabricación Avanzada (CFA), managed by Fidamc, which has been conceived from the design stage onwards using advanced manufacturing processes and new materials.
The aim of this project is to improve the system’s performance whilst strengthening key aspects such as safety, maintenance, quality, cost, versatility and sustainability.
Designed with a plug-and-play approach, the module allows for quick installation on ships already in service, equipping them with additional capabilities rapidly and efficiently. Its self-supporting structure also facilitates both storage in shipyards and on-board integration within short timeframes, simplifying deployment processes.
Estimated weight reduction of 40%
The final design is the result of the use of innovative materials and new manufacturing techniques that allow for complex and disruptive geometries, which are difficult to achieve using traditional methods. In particular, the use of advanced polymers offers greater design freedom and enables a highly optimised solution. The result is a lightweight and innovative module, with an estimated weight reduction of 40% compared to solutions based on conventional materials and processes.
The manufacture of this prototype is the first 3D-printed project to be carried out at the CFA’s facilities using CEAD’s large-format 3D printermarking a milestone for both Navantia and Spanish industry.
The CFA Cádiz’s involvement in this type of project highlights its role as a technology platform serving industry. The centre’s capabilities—which include additive manufacturing, robotics, metrology and digitisation, and drone technologies—enable the development of innovative solutions and facilitate technology transfer to strategic sectors such as shipbuilding and defense..
Initiatives of this kind reinforce the CFA’s position as a collaborative environment between companies, technology centres and industry, driving the development of new solutions based on advanced technologies and contributing to the strengthening of the industrial ecosystem.
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