ABS in Korean 3D printing deal

Using a digital library for the design process, the system aims to support rapid maintenance, repair and operations by using 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, to manufacture parts on a vessel while at sea.

“AM technologies have a vast potential to revolutionise production methods, shorten supply chain lead time and provide flexibility to end users in the maritime and related industries,” explained Gareth Burton, ABS vice president of technology.

“ABS is committed to supporting the continued innovation of this technology through joint projects such as this and through our approval and certification process while maintaining our focus on quality and safety.”

Project partners include Ulsan Metropolitan City, Ulsan ICT Promotion Agency, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Korea Marine Equipment Research Institute, CSCam, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, HMM, and the Korean Register of Shipping.

Seongho Jeon, chief technology officer at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, called the deal an ‘exciting milestone’. “[This is] a significant research and development effort focused on the creation of a cutting-edge 3D printing system designed to enhance maintenance, repair, and operations within the maritime industry,” he said.

“HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is making the effort to develop 3D printing technologies to expand the applications into the shipbuilding industry.”