An Analysis on the Effects of Additive Manufacturing (AM) on F/A-18E/F Readiness

Abstract

This research paper focuses on the Boeing F/A-18E and the F/A-18F Super Hornets aviation depot level repairable (AVDLR) parts process and the potential effects of additive manufacturing (AM) on that process. The motivation for study was spurred by recent reports indicating that the F/A-18E/F is experiencing decreased operational readiness due to increases in maintenance related impacts related to parts availability, long lead times, and increased parts failure frequency. This study aimed to determine the requirements for interjecting AM into the Intermediate level repair process in order to make a significant impact on F/A-18E/F depot-level repairable part lead times. More specifically, this research analyzes the potential impact of various AM production levels on overall lead times. Facilitation of this research project was accomplished through mathematical modeling and by conducting simulations based on various assumptions and probability distributions. Eight simulations were conducted; each with different AM production time assumptions. Resultant outputs reflected 19 different scenarios simulating 0%–90% production of AM at the Intermediate Maintenance level. Results indicate that AM has the potential to decrease overall expected lead time averages if AM production can be kept to less than approximately 30 days.