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Will boats be a breakthrough for 3D printing tech?

Will boats be a breakthrough for 3D printing tech?

Summary

CEAD, a Dutch company, is using 3D printing technology to build boats, speeding up the production process and reducing labor. Their innovation involves using a mix of thermoplastics and fiberglass, creating strong, durable boats without needing extra coatings. They are demonstrating this technology with projects like a prototype boat for the Dutch Navy and unmanned vessels for NATO.

Key Facts

  • CEAD is based in Delft, Netherlands, and creates large 3D printers.
  • They have developed a mix of thermoplastics and fiberglass for 3D printing boats.
  • 3D printing allows boats to be built faster and with less labor than traditional methods.
  • CEAD created a 12-meter fast boat prototype for the Dutch Navy in six weeks.
  • Traditional boatbuilding is labor-intensive, while 3D printing automates much of the process.
  • CEAD's printers can be easily transported and set up near where boats are needed.
  • They have also successfully tested the use of 3D printed unmanned vessels for NATO.

Source Information