3D Printing/Space/ Carbon/Sustainable/Conservation.

Setting sail into the future the world’s largest 3D Printed boat, 3Dirigo revolutionizes maritime manufacturing.

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A team of researchers from the University of Maine has propelled maritime manufacturing into a new era with the unveiling of the 3Dirigo, the world’s largest 3D-printed boat. Garnering recognition from Guinness World Records for the largest 3D printed solid part, boat, and 3D printer, the 3Dirigo weighs 2.2 tons and boasts a length of 7.62 meters, showcasing the transformative power of large-format polymer 3D printing. The project, designed on a 30 x 6.70 x 3-meter 3D printer developed by the UMaine Advanced Structures and Composites Center in collaboration with Ingersoll Machine Tools, signifies a promising leap in maritime innovation. The large-format 3D printing not only breaks records but also opens doors to more sustainable and cost-effective boat manufacturing processes. The composite materials used in the construction of the 3Dirigo highlight the potential for additive manufacturing in revolutionizing traditional approaches.

The maritime sector is increasingly turning to large-format 3D printing to create entire structures in a single printing process, minimizing assembly and post-processing efforts. The 3Dirigo, built with a focus on composite materials, emphasizes the benefits of additive manufacturing in the marine industry. In a broader context, the University of Maine’s 3D printing initiatives extend beyond boat manufacturing. The university has collaborated with the Combat Capabilities Development Command (CCDC) to develop a 3.6-meter-long 3D-printed communication shelter for the US military. This demonstrates the versatility and potential applications of large-format 3D printing in civil, defense, and infrastructure projects.

This accomplishment follows a broader trend in maritime 3D printing, exemplified by Al Seer Marine’s creation of a 3D-printed water taxi. Not only breaking records for the world’s largest 3D printed boat, this initiative showcases the industry’s commitment to sustainability by utilizing 67% recycled materials.

As the maritime sector navigates the waters of innovation, the 3Dirigo serves as a beacon, signaling the transformative impact of large-format 3D printing on boat manufacturing and beyond. The future of maritime innovation is setting sail, propelled by the winds of additive manufacturing and sustainability.

University of Maine creates the world’s largest 3D printed boat.

World’s First 3D Printed Water Taxi Is Also Largest 3D Printed Boat.

Valiant products take off with Velo3D Sapphire XC joining the contract manufacturing network for 3D Printing rocket engine parts.

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Valiant Products is embarking on an exciting journey in additive manufacturing, leveraging the advanced capabilities of Velo3D’s Sapphire XC system. The company, renowned for its commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of manufacturing technology, has announced its plans to 3D print rocket engine parts using the cutting-edge XC metal machine. While Valiant has expressed its intention to upgrade to the Sapphire XC 1MZ in the future, the immediate focus is on utilizing the XC system to produce high-quality parts for rocket engines. This strategic decision was influenced by a mutual customer who recognized the potential of Velo3D’s metal additive manufacturing technology in enhancing their supply chain.

The Sapphire XC system at Valiant Products has been meticulously calibrated to process Inconel 718, a material known for its high strength and corrosion resistance. Widely utilized in mission-critical applications in the aerospace industry, Inconel 718 aligns with Valiant’s commitment to providing top-notch solutions for its customers. Bob English, Founder, and CEO of Valiant Products, highlighted the company’s dedication to exploring new manufacturing technologies to offer customers access to the best capabilities for producing complex designs and geometries. He expressed confidence that Velo3D’s metal 3D printing technology will empower customers to build lighter-weight and more performant parts. Michelle Sidwell, Velo3D EVP of Global Sales and Business Development, commended Valiant Products for its innovative approach to addressing customer challenges. The installation of the Sapphire XC at Valiant has showcased their meticulous attention to detail. With its proximity to the Cape Canaveral launch pads, Valiant is positioned to be a valuable resource for aerospace customers seeking to manufacture parts for rocket and air-breathing engines.

As Valiant Products joins Velo3D’s contract manufacturer network, the collaboration promises to transform aerospace supply chains. The fully integrated solution, coupled with the expertise of both companies, is set to bring about a significant impact on the way rocket engine parts are manufactured. The aerospace industry can anticipate a new era of lighter, more efficient components, thanks to the strategic partnership between Valiant Products and Velo3D.

By 14 November 2023, 15:20.

Valiant Products to 3D print rocket engine parts with Velo3D Sapphire XC system.