Additive Snack

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld is joined by Thomas Pomorski, Director of Additive Manufacturing at Ursa Major. Tom discusses his extensive background in additive manufacturing, including his work at Bechtel Plant Machinery and Penn United. He shares insights into Ursa Major's journey in scaling propulsion manufacturing for space and defense, emphasizing the importance of insourcing, quality systems, and the iterative approach in additive development. 

Tom delves into the challenges and solutions in scaling additive manufacturing, including complex parameter strategies, automation, and flexible manufacturing. He also highlights Ursa Major’s products, such as the Hadley and Draper engines, and the company's innovative approach to solid rocket motor manufacturing. The episode concludes with Tom's advice for companies looking to scale additive manufacturing operations and a look into the future of the industry.

01:46 Tom's Journey into Additive Manufacturing
02:04 Early Career and First Additive Roles
04:38 Joining Ursa Major and Initial Challenges
10:11 Vertical Integration and Scaling Challenges
20:14 Advanced Additive Strategies and Collaborations
26:28 Automating Build Setups with Python
26:58 Challenges in Hiring Additive Process Engineers
28:06 Building a Passionate and Skilled Team
29:30 Leveraging Local Talent and Resources
31:17 Collaborating Across the Aerospace and Defense Industry
32:50 URS's Product Portfolio and Additive Manufacturing
35:34 Flexible Manufacturing for Solid Rocket Motors
39:07 Future Developments in Additive Manufacturing
41:35 The Importance of Material Development
46:29 Scaling Operations and Advice for Newcomers
 

Creators and Guests

Host
Fabian Alefeld

What is Additive Snack?

Join host Fabian Alefeld and a range of guests as they discuss all things additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing news, with interviews and real-world stories to educate and entertain. Each episode, Fabian talks to AM experts, professionals in specialist fields, and 3D printing users from all walks of life to deliver a well-rounded view on the state of AM.

Cut through the confusion surrounding polymer and metal additive manufacturing solutions with our digestible, down-to-earth discussions that deliver insights into common mistakes and best practice tips so you can get a clear understanding of AM — layer for layer.

Whether you’re curious about 3D printing technology for the aerospace industry, a deep dive into post processing, or applications of injection molding — we leave no spare parts behind. We want to provide you with the additive insight needed to stay laser focused and leverage every opportunity 3D printing materials have to offer.

Join us for an Additive Snack and we’ll help you and your business achieve growth and success through the latest developments in AM.

No marketing B.S. and no product pitches. Just the education, inspiration and information you and your organization need to drive business growth, brought to you by global AM leader EOS.

Get ready to feed your AM knowledge and find your path to success!