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by Kevin McAndrews (U.S. Navy) U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) experts created and tested 3D-printed antennas, arrays, and parts to advance radar technology at sea.
Radar systems perform critical functions for the Navy, and remain an important part of maritime navigation and national defense. Parts for antennas and arrays may unexpectedly break or wear out requiring replacement. Traditionally, parts are ordered or intricately machined out of metal, sometimes taking weeks to produce. 3D-printed radar parts, such as a cylindrical array, which provide 360-degree visibility, can be produced within hours versus several days using traditional methods due to the reduced machining and assembly time.