Additive Manufacturing Metal 3D Printing for the Marine and Offshore Sector - Paving the Path from Lab into the Field

Abstract

Abstract Additive manufacturing has been heralded as a revolutionary process set to change the face of manufacturing forever. However, after all the hype dies down, the reality is that taking this technology from the laboratory and applying it to real world applications in the field can be more challenging than some news reports might lead to people to believe. The idea of a plug and play machine is still a way off, although it will one day become a reality. This paper highlights some of the challenges facing the marine and offshore industry's adoption of the technology, how these challenges can be overcome and the potential benefits that this technology can yield. Based on the experiences of working with manufacturers and end users that have utilized this technology to manufacture products to meet demanding industry requirements, this paper will show that the technology can be adopted safely. There is a need to improve quality control, production consistency and further develop the complete supply chain. The development of international standards and the greater adoption of independent certification are ways to give confidence to the offshore industry to adopt this technology. Although there are challenges to overcome, the potential benefits can be substantial, both technically and economically.