3D printing is just hype ? Can you actually ship parts printing, which can withstand the demands of the harsh practice of shipping? That question is answered in the project ” 3D printing of marine spare parts’ , a consortium of 27 port-related companies performing this summer .
On the initiative and under the guidance of Innovation Quarter, the regional development of South Holland, and in cooperation with the Port of Rotterdam and RDM Maker Space, ship parts as screws, washers and liquid conductors will be 3D printed and tested. The consortium agreement was signed by the participating partners.
Applicable solutions
The pilot project “3D printing of marine spare parts’ has officially launched an investigation into the possibilities of 3D printing of metal parts for the marine sector. The 27 participating organizations contribute financially and with expertise on this project with. From a list of more than thirty possible parts is a selection of four specific components. This selection process was a learning experience in itself: What can 3D print? What advantages does 3D printing? And it is economically viable to print?
SLS 3D printed screw © Van Dalen Products – Credits: innovationquarter.nl
3D printing, in practice
The project not only provides a number of printed parts, but the consortium will also test parts and determine whether they meet the requirements of the components in practice in the maritime sector. In addition, the partners in the project to build a database indicating which parts now can be printed soon or in the future. This database provides a guide to marine companies when selecting materials, manufacturing and finishing aspects. And it offers participants the opportunity to concrete and targeted to maximize the benefits and opportunities of this new technology into practice.
Presentation at World Port Days
The actual 3D printing of the parts found in July and August this year. In September, the components are tested and follows the reporting. The progress of the project will be presented at the Rotterdam World Port Days, early September. The findings will be presented at a 3D printing conference in the Port of Rotterdam, in the autumn 2015.
Reference: nnovationquarter.nl
hi