Sembmarine said it has received certifications awarded by DNV GL to qualify its 3D printing procedures and specifications for components used in construction and repair projects, a step it believes is a “game-changing development” for the group to “unlock significant efficiencies”.
The certifications serve to endorse Sembmarine’s use of 3D printing technology for repairing non-critical parts such as worn-out metal sleeves used in pumps, and for fabricating bevel gear sets for machinery applications.
Sembmarine pointed out that these certifications also give the group the experience to prepare for the validation and use of more 3D-printed components in its projects, which will reduce its reliance on external procurement and reduce supply chain risks.
“The DNV GL certifications help us work towards a 3D printing regime that lets Sembmarine custom-make components, improve their design and quality, and mitigate external procurement constraints on cost, lead-time and availability – for instance, parts for a repair job that may be expensive, obsolete, not in stock or no longer in production,” said Wong Weng Sun, president and ceo of Sembmarine.
Wong added that 3D printing can expedite project turnaround at Sembmarine shipyards and allow the wider offshore and marine (O&M) sector to become more self-sufficient.
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, fabricates three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file by successively adding layers of material until the intended object is formed.
Sembmarine has been working closely with DNV GL, A*Star’s Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech), National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and commercial additive manufacturer 3D Metalforge, to develop 3D printing for O&M applications.
Brice Le Gallo, DNV GL regional manager, commented: “It is very satisfying to award Sembmarine the certifications for the 3D printed parts. I truly believe 3D printing can make a major impact in reducing cost, creating efficiencies and lowering supply chain risks.
“I am confident that the certifications awarded to Sembmarine will encourage more collaborations and developments in the O&M sector,” he added.
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