3D metal printing. Credit: DNV GL AS.

DNV GL has established a new centre in Singapore to support the research and development of additive manufacturing (AM) technology, also known as 3D printing.

The new Global Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence is intended to function as an incubator and test bed for operations and maintenance (O&M) solutions for the oil and gas, offshore and marine sector.

It will be supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and is set to primarily focus on developing competence in the areas of qualification, certification and training for 3D-printing technology.

"It will be supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and is set to primarily focus on developing competence in the areas of qualification, certification and training."

The establishment of the facility also forms part of a newly unveiled partnership between DNV GL, Sembcorp Marine, SIMTech and NAMIC, which aims to develop and certify laser-aided additive manufacturing (LAAM) technology for the production of large-scale structures for newbuild vessels in Singapore.

DNV GL group president and CEO Remi Eriksen said: “The establishment of the centre is timely due to the rising interest in adopting additive manufacturing.

“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 and gas, offshore and marine sector.”

In addition, DNV GL intends to use the site to facilitate the adoption of 3D-printing technology in the O&M sector by offering technical standards and guidelines for qualifying and certifying AM equipment, processes, products, materials and personnel.

DNV GL will partner with local research institutes and industry partners in order to boost competence and advance the use of AM under the initiative.

EDB noted that the centre is expected to help the growth of manufacturing competitiveness within Singapore’s marine and offshore engineering industry.