Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Industry expanding AM technology
in the defense sector since 2019,
with advanced training programs established in 2021
[Source: KFN Defense News]
In South Korea, specialized training programs have been established to cultivate AM system operators in the defense sector. One of these is the Basic Training Program, which has been held annually since 2019 in collaboration with Hanbat National University, Daejeon Technopark, and the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH). This program has successfully graduated 183 individuals, building a strong foundation in AM technology for the defense sector.
After completing the basic training and gaining 2-3 years of practical experience in the military, engineers require more advanced education. In response to this need, the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Defense launched the Advanced Training Program in 2021, designed for seasoned professionals. This program is hosted by the Korea AM Innovation Center(KAMIC), a leading research institution focused on commercializing and applying AM technology in real-world scenarios. To date, 38 participants have completed the advanced program.
The Advanced Training Program focuses on equipping participants with the skills needed to handle complex metal AM processes under demanding conditions and to reliably ensure the quality of printed components. Once defense personnel can expertly manage the production and quality assurance of high-precision metal AMed parts, it is expected to significantly contribute to maintaining and enhancing defense capabilities.
The curriculum for this intensive 5-day program includes:
- Theory classes on the application of AM in the defense sector
Lectures designed to help participants connect their practical experience with domestic and international case studies. - Metal DED printing practice
Hands-on experience with metal Directed Energy Deposition (DED) printing under complex conditions. - X-ray CT scanning and analysis
Techniques for evaluating the internal structure of printed components using X-ray CT scanning. - SEM imaging and analysis
Use of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for analyzing the surface and microstructure of printed parts. - Study of metal materials characteristics and microstructure interpretation
Training on the characteristics of various metal materials and methods for interpreting metal microstructures.
The 2024 Advanced Training Program for AM Experts in the Defense Sector will be held from August 19 to 23 at the Shiheung AM Innovation Center. The program aims to equip participants with the latest skills and insights, enabling them to play a critical role in advancing AM technology within the defense sector.
