Smartbear SW Renewal

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

To procure a multi-material Lithography-Based Ceramic Manufacturing (LCM) 3D printer to support the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) Composites Engineering Laboratory's research, development, testing, processing, and production of ceramic-based composite materials. The printer will enable the design and characterization of new composite materials for applications such as hypersonic radomes.

• Provide an LCM Multi-Material 3D Printer system.
• The system shall include a standalone printer unit, a benchtop cleaning station, and options for thermal post-processing equipment (ovens and furnaces).
• The printer must be capable of producing ceramic composite test articles and small-scale proof-of-concept parts.
• Support research into novel material development, efficient production methods, and transition of R&D materials to production.

Printer Unit:

• Build volume: Minimum 2.6" x 1.6" x 6.5" (x/y/z).
• Material capability: Compatible with commercially available and user-developed slurries (e.g., alumina, zirconia, silicon nitride, silica-based materials).
• Viscosity range: 0.1 to 100 Pa.
• Multi-material printing: Capable of printing at least two distinct materials, between and within layers.
• Resolution: Lateral resolution of at least 35 microns.
• Layer thickness: 10-100 microns.
• Build speed: Up to 100 layers per hour.
• Data format: .stl (binary), transmitted via Ethernet or USB.
• Software: Must account for ceramic material shrinkage, allow in-print parameter adjustments, and calculate slurry requirements.
• Security: No integrated Wi-Fi, live video streaming, or video recording. No internet connectivity required for core functions. Data must be removable and securable.
• Open system platform with no recurring licensing fees.

Cleaning Station Unit:

• Enclosed workspace for handling and cleaning green printed parts.
• Compatible with commercial slurries.
• Integrated inputs for adjustable compressed air and cleaning fluid.
• Ergonomic design with armrests and organized storage.
• Integrated air pressure regulation, filtration, and suction.
• Capable of receiving and containing heated materials up to 120°F.

Thermal Post Processing Equipment (Optional):

• Ovens capable of continuous open air operation at 250°C.
• Furnaces capable of continuous open air operation at 1000°C and 1700°C.

Installation and setup at NAWCWD China Lake.

• Contractor to provide checkout procedures, instruction manuals, maintenance manuals, and schedules.
• Training to be provided during acceptance testing (2 days at contractor facility) and on-site post-installation (safety, programming, hardware operation).
• Follow-on advanced training offered within the first year.
• 1-year warranty against defects.
• Priced options for annual service/maintenance support.
• Recommendations for compatible slurry materials.
• Safety data sheets (SDS) for all provided materials.
• Government responsible for utility connections (electricity, water, compressed air).