A Mazak hybrid CNC machine tool using wire-arc deposition for metal additive manufacturing was used to make this solid steel missile nose cone, which was also machined to tolerance as part of the same cycle. The part demonstrates the potential role of hybrid machine tools for low-volume production of parts that might otherwise require long lead times for forging, casting or assembly. The part seen here is a proof of concept, but based on this demo, the Air Force ordered a 3D printed missile nose cone to its own specifications which has been used in flight testing.

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