November 2019 Volume 1

FORGING RESEARCH

About FDMC The DLA-funded Procurement Readiness Optimization-Forging Advanced Systems and Technologies (PRO-FAST) program supports the advancement of forging manufacturing technologies and DOD-focused supply chain research and development. If your company is interested in collaborating with FDMC on a research project, please contact FDMC Executive Director Polly Graham at 843-760-3375 (polly.graham@ati.org) or FDMC Project Manager Dekland Barnum at 843-760-3538 (dekland.barnum@ati.org).

capital investment required are hurdles for adopting emerging technologies within the industry. One example of this is 3D drawing technology. Today’s emerging skilled workforce is educated in 3D drawings and simulation software, while 2Ddrawings are no longer a focus in academia. Since 2D drawings are commonly the predominate technical medium for DOD legacy parts, the emerging workforce typically encounters a learning curve and a reliance on senior skilled workers to familiarize them with TDP interpretation. As many senior skilled workers retire from the workforce, losing this experience and capability is an The summit proved itself as a forum to improve understanding of the challenges facing the forging industrial base and a preliminary path forward. The consistent messages across both the casting and forging industries reinforced the need for an action plan following the summit. The proceedings concluded with a request for participation in working groups to the attendees. Three working groups were identified, each focusing on one specific area: 1. TDP and quality 2. Contracting and Business Development 3. Industry Practices. Each working group will have approximately five to 10 participants, including an industry lead, contractor support, government support, university representation and trade association representation. Once the working groups are organized and a start date is confirmed, milestones will be established will a completion goal of December 2019, followed by a formal final report briefing February 2020. This summit served as a starting point for a conversation that will continue beyond a final report. Continuous education on the challenges to manufacturing forged parts and their important benefits will continue to reinforce these conversations. FDMC is at the forefront of this, with regularly scheduling Forging Design Seminars at DLA Supply Centers, DOD depots, air logistics centers and military bases throughout the country. Overall, this was a positive discussion with strong representation from all participating organizations on all sides. While much collaborative work remains, the level of engagement during the summit reflects a sincere willingness to work toward meaningful resolutions. increasing concern. Future Actions

Polly Graham, FDMC Executive Director

Dekland Barnum, FDMC Project Manager

FIA MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019 43