Singaporean 3D-printed propeller project adds ABS

The introduction of WAAM techniques into propeller manufacturing is intended to shorten build-times, while delivering high-quality support-free prints. ABS’ involvement is intended to ensure that the 3D-printed propeller aligns with rigorous ABS Classification standards for propeller production.

The collaborative project builds upon a MoU between ABS and MMPL focused on additive manufacturing (AM) – or 3D printing – for critical maritime components.

“AM technologies have a huge potential to revolutionize supply chain and maintenance procedures both in maritime and beyond, and ABS is committed to supporting these innovations without compromising safety. Singapore is a critical location of the emerging regional and global green ecosystems, of which Additive Manufacturing is certain to play a role,” said Gareth Burton, ABS Vice President of Technology.

“Additive Manufacturing represents the dawn of limitless possibilities in the maritime industry. It emerges as the game-changer, revolutionizing the way we approach complex and labor-intensive components. At Mencast, we see it as the bridge between traditional craftsmanship and future-forward innovation,” said Glenndle Sim, CEO of Mencast Group.

“Singapore’s first class-certified ship propeller by ABS, commissioned by Mencast, will be developed and manufactured with SUTD’s proprietary hybrid wire-arc additive manufacturing platform (H-WAAM). This marks a significant step towards supporting our local leading subject matter experts to transform towards digital and sustainable manufacturing processes as part of Singapore Maritime’s industry transformation roadmap. This project represents the culmination of a multi-year effort riding on public-private partnerships, pulling through promising AM research into technology solutions that can be adopted by the industry, to support Singapore’s 2030 manufacturing vision and net-zero goals,” said Dr. Ho Chaw Sing, CEO of NAMIC.

“We are excited to be part of Mencast’s innovation journey towards Industry 4.0 Transformation. We look forward to working with them to translate our hybrid wire arc AM research into the production of Class propellers,” said Dr. Soh Gim Song, Associate Professor and Director of Education at SUTD.

ABS has been involved in a range of industry-leading AM initiatives, including a joint development project to fabricate, test and install functional AM parts on board an oil tanker.