YSU lands $365K grant from US Defense Department for state-of-art 3-D printer

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded Youngstown State University a $365,000 grant to purchase a 3-D printer.

The 3D printer will enhance YSU’s additive manufacturing research and education capabilities. The equipment uses a process called “directed energy deposition” that involves spraying powdered metal or ceramic in front of a laser that then fuses the powder.

“With this new equipment, YSU students and faculty will have access to six of the seven types of [additive manufacturing] processes either here at YSU or at America Makes,” said Brett Conner, YSU associate professor of mechanical and industrial engineering and director of advanced manufacturing workforce initiatives.

America Makes is a public- private partnership with member organizations from industry, academia, government and workforce-development resources. Founded in 2012, it is the first additive-manufacturing hub created by President Barack Obama’s administration.

Read the full story Monday in The Vindicator and on Vindy.com.