Press Release - Murphy Secures Federal Funds for Development of Local, Innovative Technology

Murphy Secures Federal Funds for Development of Local, Innovative Technology
Crucible Research

Washington, Oct 24 - Congressman Tim Murphy (PA-18) today announced he secured of $1 million for the Domestic Titanium Powder Manufacturing Initiative, a process of converting titanium ore to a much more durable and light weight metal, as part of the annual defense appropriations bill. The Initiative is conducted for the U.S. Department of Defense by Crucible Research, located in Robinson Township.

"The Domestic Titanium Powder Manufacturing Initiative and similar projects in Southwestern Pennsylvania are playing a crucial role in fighting the War on Terror," Congressman Tim Murphy said. "The Initiative incorporates new technologies to create titanium metal alloys that can not be made be made by any other means. The highly advanced material can be produced at a higher volume than current methods allow. It will be used for medical devices, commercial aircraft, military high speed aircraft, missiles and unmanned air vehicles, improving their durability and safety. It will also expand the use of titanium which has previously been limited because of high production costs. This material will lead to longer lifetimes for medical devices and improved fuel efficiency in aircrafts, saving money in the long-term."

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The money was included in the 2007 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, which became law September 29, 2006. The Act provides federal funds for the country's military personnel, operations and maintenance, research and development, and other items related to defense. Congressman Murphy has secured $2 million for the Domestic Titanium Powder Manufacturing Initiative in each of the last two defense spending bills.

"The continuation of this project and the research and development associated with it is expected to create between 150 and 200 new engineering and technical jobs in Southwestern Pennsylvania," Murphy concluded. "Once again, Pittsburgh's manufacturing sector is producing breakthrough technology that will help win the War on Terror and improve healthcare. As we move forward, it is essential that we keep working together to develop new products and create new jobs in the region."

http://murphy.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=51901