DNV GL has been selected by a Singapore-based research programme to study additive manufacturing (AM) for the maritime sector.
As part of the initiative, which was launched by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), DNV GL will cooperate with ten member companies of the Singapore Ship Association (SSA) to determine whether the 3D printing of spare parts can help shippers and ports reduce costs.
Organizations collaborating for the joint industry programme (JIP) are planning to establish a list of commonly-ordered parts that could be 3D printed, a move that is expected to encourage more companies in the maritime industry to optimize their spare parts supply with AM.
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Currently, the marine parts inventory around the world faces challenges such as high inventory costs, low utilization rates and parts obsolescence, as well the increasing complexity of supply chains.
Kenneth Lim, Director, Research & Technology and Industry Development Transformation at MPA, said: “We believe that the best way forward in the development of AM is collaboration across the ecosystem.
“As Singapore seeks to be the global maritime hub for connectivity, innovation and talent, we are excited to see that multiple stakeholders are together exploring the potential of how additive manufacturing can be applied in the maritime industry to create greater value.”
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