3D Systems Collaborates with Savannah River National Laboratory to Advance 3D Printing in Nuclear Energy Systems

3D Systems Corporation of the United States announced on August 27 that it has signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), under which the two parties will conduct joint research and development on additive manufacturing technology to advance its application in advanced energy production, nuclear energy systems, energy infrastructure resilience, and related mission scenarios.

Under the agreement, the two parties will leverage SRNL's Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC) to advance work in advanced materials development, equipment upgrades, AI and machine learning-assisted process optimization, manufacturing systems, cybersecurity, and workforce development. Collaboration goals include developing next-generation additive manufacturing materials, real-time process optimization tools, and scalable production solutions, as well as cultivating specialized talent for advanced manufacturing technology applications.

One of the key focuses of this collaboration is applying 3D printing technology to nuclear energy and the broader energy infrastructure sector. Data indicates that additive manufacturing can be used to produce complex components that are difficult to fabricate using traditional processes, such as complex heat exchangers with internal cooling channels, reactor internal components, pumps, and valves manufactured from high-temperature nickel-based superalloys and other radiation-resistant materials. These components are designed for the high-temperature and irradiation conditions of advanced nuclear systems, helping to improve performance, reduce material waste, expand design freedom, and enhance supply chain resilience.

The collaborators stated that advanced reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs), and related energy projects are driving demand for new manufacturing methods to shorten development cycles, reduce costs, and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities. Citing International Energy Agency projections, the data notes that under existing policy scenarios, small modular reactor installed capacity could grow to approximately 40 gigawatts by 2050; under an accelerated development scenario, it could reach 120 gigawatts.

It is understood that SRNL's Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative has deployed 3D Systems equipment, accompanied by facility upgrades and a resident team of additive manufacturing experts. The two parties plan to use this platform to advance the continuum from fundamental research and process validation to technology transfer and commercial application, with outcomes targeting high-value industrial sectors such as nuclear energy, aerospace and defense, and environmental technologies. This collaboration will also expand training for additive manufacturing scientists, engineers, and technicians, supporting talent development in the advanced manufacturing field.