Marine in Wilhelmshaven: 3D printing revolutionizes spare parts supply!

Marine in Wilhelmshaven: 3D printing revolutionizes spare parts supply!

Wilhelmshaven, Deutschland - In Wilhelmshaven, 3D printing is used to increase the willingness of the marine. This innovative procedure enables spare parts to be made quickly and flexibly directly on board. For example, parts can be made and installed independently via a 3D printer during use on the high seas without relying on elaborate procurement processes. An impressive example of this is the fan wheel of a fire extinguishing pump that was replaced by the frigate Bavaria during the Indo-Pacific deployment. The spare part was digitally constructed, 3D printed in Wilhelmshaven, which impressively shows the possibilities of 3D printing in the marine.

The Bundeswehr opened its first 3D printing center in Erding in 2017 and has been pursuing its own strategy for the use of this technology since then. In contrast to the army and the Air Force, the navy relies on the integration of 3D printers as a tool on board. Since the beginning of 2023, the marine technology school in Parow has been training for 3D printing users to bundle the expertise in the field of additive manufacturing.

individual needs of the navy

The 3D print in the navy works by laying the layer of liquefied plastic, with a variety of materials, including ABS and TPU. Several units are currently equipped with 3D printers that can produce compact parts of up to a size of 35x35x35 cm. The aim is to expand and optimize the Bundeswehr's logistical chain. Often there are long procurement times for original spare parts or even lack of availability in the room-3D printing is just right here.

Another aspect that affects this technology are the different user groups within the Bundeswehr. While the WIWEBS specialist personnel uses the 3D printing center as a "Center of Excellence" for additive manufacturing, departments abroad are also equipped with their own 3D printing systems. Soldiers without their own systems can apply for components via a new platform and thus gain experience.

criticism of the implementation

Despite these promising approaches, the Federal Audit Office sees light and shadow in terms of 3D printing in the Bundeswehr. He criticizes the inadequate strategic integration of industry as well as a lack of construction plans and manufacturing rights. Already 3.4 million euros have been invested in 33 printers, but which are hardly used. An additional 15 million euros should flow by 2028. However, only ten print data has existed for over three million spare parts, which significantly restricts the effectiveness of 3D printing.

The Bundeswehr itself defends the investments and sees 3D printing as a complex technology that is to be tested in a pilot phase by 2030. The navy already sees the first success in the production of plastic parts. Nevertheless, according to the Federal Audit Office, there is a considerable need to catch up, especially in the integration of this technology into procurement contracts.