ICON Delivers for the Defense Logistics Agency

The objective of the ICON web portal is to create a marketplace that facilitates connections between Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) procurement activities and a proficient supply base specializing in critical cast components for the warfighter.

ICON, a part of AMC’s Innovative Casting Technologies (ICT) program and led by the Non-Ferrous Founders' Society (NFFS), plays a pivotal role in the timely delivery of high-quality, cost-effective metal castings. This initiative highlights the collaborative efforts within the American Consortium (AMC) to innovate and enhance the efficiency of the metal casting industry.

ICON SUCCESS STORY

Problem:

Several critical supply items for the A-10 Thunderbolt had not been purchased in many years, creating a sourcing challenge. Among these, a low-volume pedal assembly, brake, and rudder were identified as emergency-critical procurement, requiring a cost-effective and timely solution. Previous procurements were issued as casting or forging, and it was quickly determined that tooling was unavailable. 

Solution:

As part of their efforts to leverage the full suite of tools and historical data found within the ICON databases, Danko Arlington conducted extensive research on prior contracts related to this component. The ICON data provided FLIS data about the the AMSC code (K),  that indicated the component is typically manufactured using Class 1A casting or a similar forging process. Based on this analysis, a strategic decision was made to pursue a Post-Award Referral (PAR) without a  forging method. This approach allowed the organization to introduce an alternative manufacturing method utilizing casting, ensuring full compliance with First Article Testing requirements while optimizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Benefit:

By endorsing the casting approach, the DLA secured a per-unit cost reduction of 85%, resulting in total savings exceeding $80,000 compared to previous procurements of similar quantities. Over time, the DLA encountered challenges when the A-10 item became unavailable, forcing reliance on less detailed technical specifications and complicating the identification of approved, cost-effective sources. With this approved procurement award, future acquisitions will benefit from comprehensive documentation, clear references to tooling locations, and significant cost savings on the critical A-10 Thunderbolt components.

“ICON is a great prospecting tool designed for fast and efficient retrieval of complex data.  Foundries like Danko Arlington, Inc use its convenient features too on a regular basis to match our company’s capabilities with the needs for the Government. No doubt it is a win-win program for mutual success.”                        ---John Danko, President | Danko Arlington, Inc

This AMC project is sponsored by the DLA Troop Support, Philadelphia, PA and the Defense Logistics Agency Research & Development Office, Ft. Belvoir, VA. DISTRIBUTION A. Approved for public release: distribution unlimited.