{"id":1830,"date":"2025-09-04T11:29:48","date_gmt":"2025-09-04T11:29:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/interseas.es\/3d-printing-in-shipyards\/"},"modified":"2025-09-05T10:25:02","modified_gmt":"2025-09-05T10:25:02","slug":"3d-printing-in-shipyards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/interseas.es\/en\/3d-printing-in-shipyards\/","title":{"rendered":"3D printing in shipyards: from theory to practice"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

3D printing in shipyards<\/strong> and the naval industry<\/strong> is undergoing a period of unprecedented innovation. Digitisation, automation and the search for more sustainable processes have opened the door to technologies that previously seemed futuristic. <\/p>\n\n

One of the most promising is 3D printing<\/strong>, also known as additive manufacturing<\/strong>, which allows parts and prototypes to be created layer by layer from a digital model.<\/p>\n\n

For years, 3D printing was associated with research and development in laboratories. Today, however, it is being integrated into shipyards, ports and ancillary companies<\/strong>, bringing advantages such as reduced logistics costs, rapid manufacture of spare parts and flexibility in component design. <\/p>\n\n

In this article, we will explain the available technologies<\/strong>, their real applications in prototypes and parts<\/strong>, as well as the medium-term prospects<\/strong> that will shape the future of shipbuilding.<\/p>\n

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Somos provisionistas generales de buques<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

Descubre todos nuestros servicios de suministros navales y marítimos.<\/p><\/div>

M\u00e1s informaci\u00f3n<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n

1. 3D printing technologies in shipyards applied to shipbuilding<\/h2>\n\n

3D printing is not a single technique, but rather a set of methods that use different materials and processes. In shipyards, the most commonly used are: <\/p>\n\n

a) FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)<\/h3>\n\n

This method uses plastic filaments that are melted and deposited layer by layer. It is very useful for design prototypes<\/strong> and ship models. Its low cost and ease of use make it the gateway to additive manufacturing in the naval sector. <\/p>\n\n

b) SLA (Stereolithography)<\/h3>\n\n

Based on photosensitive resins that solidify with lasers. It offers high precision<\/strong> and detailed finishes, making it ideal for small components and naval engineering tests. <\/p>\n\n

c) SLS\/DMLS (Selective Laser Sintering \/ Direct Metal Laser Sintering)<\/h3>\n\n

It uses plastic or metal powders fused by laser. It allows the manufacture of high-strength functional parts<\/strong> such as valves, casings, or engine mounts. It is one of the key technologies for real applications in shipyards. <\/p>\n\n

d) WAAM (Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing)<\/h3>\n\n

One of the most promising for the heavy shipbuilding industry. It uses metal wire and electric arcs to construct large, strong parts such as structural sections and propellers. <\/p>\n\n

\ud83d\udd0d Real-life example<\/em>: in 2017, the RAMLAB<\/strong> project<\/a> in the port of Rotterdam printed the first DNV<\/strong>-certified metal propeller for a tugboat, demonstrating the viability of this technology in maritime operations.<\/p>\n

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\"Boat
Source: 3D Natives<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n

2. Practical applications in shipyards and ships<\/h2>\n\n

Beyond theory, additive manufacturing is already being applied in various areas:<\/p>\n\n

a) Naval design prototypes<\/h3>\n\n

3D printing in shipyards involves printing scale models of ships, piping systems, or deck equipment. This allows designs to be validated, faults to be detected<\/strong>, and processes to be optimised before moving on to final construction. The savings in time and costs are significant. <\/p>\n\n

b) Spare parts on demand<\/h3>\n\n

One of the greatest benefits of 3D printing is the ability to manufacture spare parts directly at the shipyard or even on board the ship. This avoids lengthy downtime<\/strong> when a part fails in the middle of a voyage and replacement would take weeks. <\/p>\n\n

\ud83d\udca1 Case study<\/em>: The Wilhelmsen Group<\/a><\/strong> has launched a 3D printing service in strategic ports, reducing logistics costs and ensuring immediate availability of parts.<\/p>\n\n

c) Critical metal components<\/h3>\n\n

Technologies such as WAAM and DMLS are used to produce highly resistant parts such as propellers, engine mounts and structural sections<\/strong>. Although they still require rigorous certification, there are already components in service that have been approved by classification societies. <\/p>\n\n

d) Customised tools<\/h3>\n\n

Shipyard workers print tools specifically designed for assembly or repair tasks, increasing ergonomics and safety<\/strong> at work.<\/p>\n

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\"Different
Source: 3D Natives<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n

3. Benefits for the shipbuilding industry<\/h2>\n\n

The integration of 3D printing in shipyards offers multiple advantages:<\/p>\n\n