Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, has the potential to revolutionize shipbuilding and maritime operations. Lloyd’s Register (LR) has been actively involved in certifying this technology, combining its technical expertise with industry needs to promote innovative solutions, reports Llyod’s Register.
Uses Of 3D Printing
Decarbonizing the maritime industry involves more than just adopting alternative fuels or energy-efficient technologies. It also requires considering the materials and processes used throughout a vessel’s lifecycle, which contribute to a company’s Scope 3 emissions.
Additive Manufacturing (AM) offers significant potential in this regard. By enabling the production of lightweight components through techniques like topology optimization, AM can help reduce a vessel’s overall weight, leading to improved fuel efficiency. Additionally, AM’s ability to produce parts on-demand and locally can reduce shipping costs and related emissions. This is particularly beneficial for remote ports and offshore installations with limited access to traditional manufacturing supply chains.
“Printing a part at a port facility, rather than shipping it from a centralised factory, has clear sustainability benefits,” Saxty notes. This localisation is especially relevant in regions with limited access to traditional manufacturing supply chains, such as remote ports or offshore installations. AM technology can also manage obsolescence by reverse-engineering outdated parts, reducing the need for high-inventory storage and improving the overall supply chain resilience.”
LR’s Guidance
LR is well-positioned to facilitate the adoption of Additive Manufacturing (AM) in the maritime sector. By certifying AM-produced parts, LR ensures they meet industry standards. However, LR’s approach is flexible, using guidance notes rather than rigid rules to adapt to the evolving technology.
LR’s guidance documents cover various aspects of AM, including material specifications and performance testing. These guidelines assist clients in navigating the regulatory and technical challenges associated with AM. LR collaborates with both established manufacturers and AM specialists, bridging the gap between traditional maritime production and innovative AM techniques.
Challenges Faced
While AM offers significant potential for the maritime industry, there are challenges to overcome. These include scaling AM processes to meet the size and durability requirements of marine components, and aligning production with marine safety standards. LR and other stakeholders are working to standardize AM certification processes, particularly for large-scale components.
Beyond environmental benefits, AM can also contribute to the digitalization of manufacturing, reduce lead times, and potentially lower costs in the long run. Saxty predicts that AM will become a viable alternative manufacturing approach in certain maritime segments, especially in regions with less established supply chains.
While widespread adoption may take time, projects like MariLight demonstrate the potential of AM to drive both innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry.
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Source: Llyod’s Register
