Joint venture to promote 3D printing

The industry spends billions of dollars every year on spare parts. With half of the vessels older than 15 years, availability of parts is limited. Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, reduces time and overheads as suitable components are manufactured near the vessel location in a matter of weeks, sometimes days.

“We are already seeing a very positive response from our maritime customers on the additive manufacturing adoption,” said Abhinav Singhal, director of thyssenkrupp Innovations. “They are realising the benefits from faster lead times, reduced costs and having more resilience in their spare parts supply chain. This is going to be a true gamechanger for the maritime industry and we are proud to offer it alongside Wilhelmsen.”

Wilhemsen launched a 3DP Early Adopter Programme in 2019 giving customers access to on-demand 3D printing. Customers include Berge Bulk, Carnival Maritime, Thome Ship Management, OSM Maritime Group, Executive Ship Management and Wilhelmsen Ship Management.

The joint venture will offer a customised, on-demand and more efficient process of obtaining selected spare parts. Expected to be headquartered in Singapore, it will serve all key port locations around the world.