thyssenkrupp TechCenter granted first DNV GL certification for 3D printed maritime parts
Norway-based classification society DNV GL has issued a certificate to engineering company thyssenkrupp, making its TechCenter Additive Manufacturing the world’s first producer of 3D printed parts for maritime applications to receive manufacturer approval from DNV GL. As an approved supplier for maritime and general industrial 3D printed components, thyssenkrupp aims to further integrate additive manufacturing in its maritime business.
The maritime and shipping industry is increasingly adopting additive manufacturing, as it provides notable advantages, like reduced lead times and costs for spare parts, as well as reduced inventory and stocking needs. For thyssenkrupp’s Marine Systems division, DNV GL’s certification means that clients can have full confidence in the 3D printed products being delivered.
“Additive manufacturing will have a significant impact on the future maritime value chain,” explained Geir Dugstad, Director of Ship Classification & Technical Director of DNV GL – Maritime. “Producing components that have the same level of quality as conventionally manufactured parts and fulfil class requirements is key.
“At DNV GL, we are very pleased to certify that the thyssenkrupp TechCenter Additive Manufacturing has demonstrated its ability to reliably produce metallic materials using additive manufacturing. This is the first time DNV GL has awarded its Approval of Manufacturer certificate, and I would like to congratulate thyssenkrupp on this achievement.”
The certificate issued by DNV GL to thyssenkrupp covers the additive production and processing of austenitic stainless steel parts. In addition to this, thyssenkrupp has also been granted certification for the acceptance process in accordance with EN 10204 and the associated product information, including the chemical and physical material characteristics. Further approvals for individual special components are reportedly also on the horizon.
“We are delighted that with thyssenkrupp TechCenter Additive Manufacturing we now have a certified partner who can supply thyssenkrupp Marine Systems with additive manufactured parts that meet both our own and our customers’ high expectations,” said Dr. Luis Alejandro Orellano, COO of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems. “Together we are putting innovative solutions into our submarines and ships, setting new standards for the navy of the future.”
The certification announcement follows extensive examinations of the thyssenkrupp TechCenter by a team of DNV GL specialists. Members from multiple DNV GL units worked together to assess the reliability and quality of the facility’s processes and ultimately came to a positive conclusion.
As Eva Junghans, Senior Principal Engineer of Materials & Welding at DNV GL – Maritime, said: ”A team effort was particularly important here, as the certification required us to rethink traditional methods for quality evaluation and certification. I would like to thank everybody involved for their support and collaboration.”
Based in Mülheim, Germany, thyssenkrupp’s TechCenter Additive Manufacturing combines extensive additive manufacturing equipment and professional expertise to help clients explore potential applications for additive manufacturing. The center, which became operational in 2017, focuses on key verticals, including engineering, aerospace, automotive and shipbuilding.
