The American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII), along with another focused on digital manufacturing and design technologies, will be funded by a US$140 million federal commitment combined with more than US$140 million in non-federal resources.
This follows the success of America Makes, formerly the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute, which was the first institute under this scheme to open.
The institute, headquartered in the Detroit area will make it possible for aluminium, titanium, and high strength steel manufacturers to partner with universities and laboratories to expand US markets for products made with lightweight and modern metals such as automobiles, wind turbines, medical devices, engines and commercial aircraft.
For the Department of Defense, lightweight and modern metals could strengthen its defence capabilities, enabling the creation of armoured vehicles strong enough to withstand a roadside bomb but light enough for helicopter-transport.
Companies involved in the ALMMII include ALCOA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, NanoSteel, Optomec, PowderMet, and RTI International Metals.
