Damen Compact Crafts (DCCr), part of the Damen Shipyards Group, and high-tech company CEAD are to develop a 3D-printed HDPE Workboat (HWB) using CEAD®HDPro material. The project will take place at CEAD’s Maritime Application Center (MAC) in Delft.
The two Dutch innovation leaders are joining forces to explore the potential of large-format additive manufacturing for the maritime industry, combining their complementary expertise: CEAD as a technology pioneer in large-format composite 3D printing and print technologies, and Damen as a specialist in designing and delivering compact workboats for a wide range of applications.
With this project, Damen aims to investigate how 3D printing technology can contribute to the faster, more sustainable, and more flexible production of functional vessels. The HWB is being designed as a versatile vessel, suitable for a wide range of operations, including inspection, support, patrol, and logistical tasks. By 3D printing the hull of the boat, not only is more design freedom achieved, but it also opens the possibility of integrating recycled and renewable materials.
“This collaboration demonstrates how technology can directly contribute to practical solutions in the maritime sector,” said Charléne van Wingerden, Chief Business Development Officer at CEAD. “The MAC was founded to accelerate exactly these kinds of innovations – and a 3D-printed HWB is a perfect example of that.”
“Innovation and standardisation are part of our DNA at Damen. 3D printing allows us to respond more quickly and flexibly to what our customers really need. It’s an exciting step toward smart, sustainable solutions that work,” said Nick Pruissen, Managing Director at Damen Compact Crafts.
This is the first step for both parties in exploring the opportunities of a new production process for the maritime industry – focused on sustainability, efficiency, and innovation. The success of the 3D-printed HWB could open the door to broader applications of additive manufacturing in shipbuilding.
