HD Hyundai and ABS Introduce Onboard 3D Printing for Maritime Applications

The maritime industry faces significant challenges when it comes to replacing critical components while at sea. To address this, a consortium led by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has developed the world’s first commercial vessel equipped with an onboard metal 3D printing system. This ‘3D Printing Digital Workshop’ is housed in a shipping container and features an advanced motion compensation system to counteract the ship’s movement, ensuring stable print conditions.

The project, supported by the Korean government, aims to revolutionize ship maintenance by reducing the wait time for replacement parts from an average of 233 days to just two days. The system uses a newly developed carbon-steel powder, SS400, optimized for maritime applications. The long-term vision includes integrating 3D printing into a global digital supply chain, enabling ships to request and print parts at sea or at ports.

Classification societies like ABS play a crucial role in validating and standardizing these technologies, ensuring their seamless adoption. As the maritime sector moves towards digitalization, onboard 3D printing could enhance operational efficiency, minimize downtime, and significantly reduce supply chain dependency.