Pantex cuts ribbon on Advanced Fabrication Facility

80-year-old buildings replaced with modern facility

AMARILLO, Texas – Pantex's modernization efforts continue as antiquated structures are removed and new buildings are erected as replacement facilities. Two years ago, Pantex broke ground on the Advanced Fabrication Facility (AFF), replacing structures built nearly 80 years ago.

For more than 58 years, Pantex has manufactured high–explosive (HE) charges for every weapon in the nation's nuclear stockpile. The AFF, with an approximate cost of $21 million, has a footprint of 20,000 square feet and will provide a more efficient and cleaner workspace for development and testing operations.

“The AFF will enable Pantex to support Weapon Modernization Program production, which directly impacts deliverables to our Department of Defense customer and global security for the nation,” said Jason Armstrong, Pantex Field Office Manager. “Completion of this facility is another example of our commitment to our mission and to our designation as the National Nuclear Security Administration High Explosives Center of Excellence for manufacturing.”

Pantex HE production is wide–ranging; providing cradle–to–grave HE manufacturing for all weapons programs. The AFF replaces an inadequate legacy facility with an annual maintenance cost exceeding $470,000. It also allows for consolidation of operations from three World War II–era buildings, allowing for improvements in operations and efficiency.

Senior Director of Explosives Technology Operations Monty Cates is proud of the unique HE work performed at Pantex. “The AFF is a testament to the talent, dedication, and hard work of the people who worked on it, such as the contractor and subcontractor partners, Construction Projects, Engineering, Production Projects, the Advanced Fabrication team, and many others,” said Cates. “This facility houses some of the most technically advanced subtractive and additive manufacturing machines available, which will positively impact Pantex's ability to support the Global Security Mission now and in the future.”

Other near–term construction projects supporting the HE mission include the High Explosives Science and Engineering Facility and the High Explosives Synthesis, Formulation, and Production Facility.

###

PanTeXas Deterrence, LLC (PXD) is the management and operating contractor for the National Nuclear Security Administration's Pantex Plant located in Carson County near Amarillo, Texas. Pantex maintains the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nation's nuclear weapons stockpile. PXD is a joint venture led by a BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) subsidiary – it also includes Fluor; SOC, A Day & Zimmermann Company; and The Texas A&M University System.

CONTACT
Steve Myers
Communications
Office (806) 573.6032
Cell (806) 236.2826

Stephen.Myers@pantex.doe.gov