The international accredited registrar DNV GL has set-up an R&D centre in Singapore to accelerate the use of 3D-printed technology within the oil and gas industry. Just some of the many benefits of 3D-printing include the immediate onsite of replacement parts, the development of lighter-weight components with unique shapes that can’t be achieved with traditional manufacturing techniques. Printed parts are already being used in planes and even nuclear power plants, but within the oil and gas industry, adoption is low due to the legitimate with qualification and certification. DNV GL’s new facility aims to develop the technical standards and guidelines needed to qualify and certify 3D-printing equipment, processes, products, materials, and personnel.
“With our long track record in R&D and strong position in developing industry technical standards, DNV GL’s Global Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence will play a catalytic role in the oil & gas, offshore and marine sector,” said Remi Eriksen, CEO of DNV GL.
The parts that the oil and gas industry might print in the future include spare parts like flanges, valves, and drill bits as well as structurally-sensitive and geometrically-complex parts. The centre is supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board and is part of a wider strategic push by the country to partner with industry as a proving ground for advanced manufacturing.
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