Advanced Metal Castings Research & Development (R&D) Requirement Program (Formerly Castings)

The purpose of this BAA stems from emerging and rapidly expanding requirements to (1) structure, execute, and coordinate projects that develop innovative solutions that can reduce the disproportionate number of DLA backorders, or unfilled orders for items that contain metal castings, and (2) to improve the quality, productivity, technology, and business practices of the metal casting industry. The key focus areas are: Procurement Solutions - Projects must focus on the identification and demonstration of improved proactive tools to assist the DLA with timely and cost-effective solicitations or acquisitions of parts having metal castings content. Proposed projects should help the DLA to evaluate and streamline metal castings supply chains for best value supply source selection, promoting business opportunities to the metal casting industry; or enhancing existing metal casting tooling data. Manufacturing Technologies - Projects must focus on the identification and demonstration of an innovative metal casting technology or manufacturing process/technology that significantly improves effectiveness, productivity, energy, or efficiency of making a casting or casted equivalent part. This may include: New, alternate or improved alloys, die materials, die and part repair methods, and die and alloy coatings and lubricants to enhance product quality or reduce manufacturing time and cost; Projects can also be focused on Industry 4.0, sensors, and smart manufacturing, robotics, automation, and other process improvements aimed at increased quality and reduced cost; Workforce development projects for current and future employees, including training and webinars, safety tools and resources, topics for attracting future workforce, and retention of current workforce.