ABS signed a memorandum of understanding to work with key stakeholders in Korea to develop and demonstrate a 3D printing system for ocean-going vessels.

Using a digital library for the design process, the system aims to support rapid maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) by using 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), to manufacture parts on a vessel while at sea.

ABS joins project partners Ulsan Metropolitan City, Ulsan ICT Promotion Agency, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Korea Marine Equipment Research Institute, CSCam, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, HMM, and the Korean Register of Shipping.

“We are proud to join this new project with HD Hyundai. AM technologies have a vast potential to revolutionize production methods, shorten supply chain lead time and provide flexibility to end users in the maritime and related industries. ABS is committed to supporting the continued innovation of this technology through joint projects such as this and through our approval and certification process while maintaining our focus on quality and safety,” said Gareth Burton, ABS Vice President of Technology.

Mr. Seongho Jeon, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, said: “This is an exciting milestone as the company celebrates the commencement of a significant research and development effort focused on the creation of a cutting-edge 3D printing system designed to enhance maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) within the maritime industry. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is making the effort to develop 3D printing technologies to expand the applications into the shipbuilding industry.”