ABS has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Pelagus 3D, a joint venture company between thyssenkrupp and Wilhelmsen, to work together on technologies supporting on-demand 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, of marine and offshore spare parts.
“At Pelagus 3D, we believe in pushing the boundaries of innovation to create a more resilient and efficient spare parts supply chain,” said Kenlip Ong, Pelagus 3D Chief Executive Officer.
“The MoU signing with ABS marks a pivotal milestone for the growth of the AM (additive manufacturing) spare parts supply chain. We look forward to working together with ABS to enhance testing capabilities that will ensure seamless integration and accelerate adoption of AM in the maritime and offshore industry.”
Over the course of the three-year agreement, the two organisations will collaborate on a variety of initiatives including the incorporation of ABS testing requirements into the Pelagus Platform for AM of parts.
The project will also support the continued development of industry guidelines and standards for AM, including qualification of global AM manufacturers and streamlining of certification for AM parts.
“AM technologies have the potential to streamline supply chains and simplify procurement and maintenance schedules, minimising delay and reducing costs,” said Gareth Burton, ABS Vice President of Technology.
“ABS is committed to supporting continued innovation in the development of AM technologies through industry-leading projects, such as this one with Pelagus 3D, and through our approval and certification process, while maintaining our focus on quality and safety.”
In related news, ABS has also announced plans to partner with Mencast Marine (MMPL), the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), and the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC) on a project to manufacture and class a 3D-printed propeller.
The collaborative project will build upon a prior MoU signed by ABS and MMPL with a new initiative that aims to 3D-print a ship propeller using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) techniques, with the goal of creating a propellor capable of satisfying ABS classification standards for propeller production.
