Boating New Zealand Boat Reviews
Reviews
Boating New Zealand News
News
Boating New Zealand Sports
Sport
Boating New Zealand Lifestyle
Lifestyle
BOAT-REVIEWS-MOBILE
Boat Reviews
BOAT-NEWS-MOBILE
News
BOAT-SPORTS-MOBILE
Sports
BOAT-LIFESTYLE-MOBILE
Lifestyle
HomeBoating NewsBoat BusinessAdditec's 3D Printing Technology Sets Sail Onboard US Navy Ship: Is This The Future of Maintenance a...

Additec’s 3D Printing Technology Sets Sail Onboard US Navy Ship: Is This The Future of Maintenance at Sea

Every boaty in New Zealand knows the hassle of getting the right part, when you need it, at a price which is affordable. This new technology allows 'printing' of parts, in full metal life, directly from a machine, just like a 3D printer would print a child's toy.  This is very cool new technology, and while this is the first and start of the breed, it would be exciting to see a future where the local BurnsCo or Marine Deals could deliver parts which are exactly perfect for my boat, 'off-the-shelf'!

Bookmark post
Bookmarked
Bookmark post
Bookmarked

In a transformative leap for maritime technology, the U.S. Navy has successfully employed Liquid Metal Jetting (LMJ) 3D printing aboard the USS San Diego, enabling the on-demand production of high-strength aluminium alloy parts. This cutting-edge breakthrough promises to revolutionise how ships maintain their operational readiness, addressing critical repair needs while at sea.

Parts made with the new technolgoy Photo Credit: Supplied

Developed by ADDiTEC, the ElemX 3D printer represents a game-changing advance in maritime innovation. For the first time, essential parts—previously reliant on traditional supply chains—can now be fabricated directly aboard a ship, ensuring quicker repairs and reducing the risks of operational downtime. The recent success aboard the USS San Diego demonstrates that 3D printing technology is not only feasible but highly effective in the challenging environment of active naval missions.

A Breakthrough in Marine Technology

This new capability highlights the U.S. Navy’s ongoing commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to maintain fleet readiness. The ElemX 3D printer uses ADDiTEC’s proprietary LMJ technology, specifically designed for high-strength aluminium alloys like Al-6061. This is no ordinary technology—it’s an innovation capable of producing robust, functional parts that meet the Navy’s rigorous performance standards.

According to Dr. Garth Hobson, Director of the Naval Postgraduate School’s Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing, Research and Education, the technology has exceeded expectations. “The ease of use and the quality of the printed parts exceeded our expectations,” said Hobson. “This technology represents a significant enhancement in our ability to maintain and repair equipment while at sea.”

This development is especially significant for maritime operations, where the ability to print high-strength components directly on board could drastically cut down time lost to repairs, particularly when access to spare parts is limited or during long-term deployments.

Redefining Naval Operations and Logistics

USS San Diego, testing the new technology Photo Credit: Supplied

The USS San Diego’s use of the ElemX printer is part of a broader effort to explore the potential of additive manufacturing in the Navy’s logistical framework. This technology could reduce the reliance on traditional supply chains—a critical advantage in contested or remote environments.

For maritime operations, the benefits extend beyond just military applications. Commercial shipping, offshore installations, and long-range yachts could similarly benefit from on-board 3D printing technology. Imagine being able to fabricate a replacement part for a vessel while mid-ocean, eliminating the need to wait for supplies or navigate to port.

ADDiTEC, the company behind this innovative 3D printer, has worked meticulously to meet the stringent requirements of naval operations. The ElemX is containerised, meaning it can be easily deployed aboard ships and in maritime environments. The ability to print durable aluminium components while at sea offers a glimpse into the future of maintenance, not only for the Navy but for all types of maritime operations.

Collaborative Innovation at Sea

The Naval Postgraduate School and the Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing, Research and Education have been key players in driving this advancement, researching and testing the ElemX 3D printer’s performance in various scenarios. By allowing the Navy to print on-demand parts, this collaboration has directly addressed long-standing logistical challenges and boosted fleet readiness.

ADDiTEC CEO Brian Mathews echoed the excitement of this breakthrough: “We have worked tirelessly to ensure our 3D printing technologies meet the specific needs of maritime operations. Seeing our efforts come to fruition with the successful printing of functional parts at sea is incredibly rewarding. We remain committed to advancing this technology for the Navy’s needs.”

What This Means for the Future of Boating

For the broader marine industry, this innovation could mark the beginning of a new era. Whether it’s a commercial vessel, a recreational yacht, or a military ship, the ability to produce custom parts at sea will drastically change how repairs are managed. As technology develops, we could see 3D printing become a regular fixture on many types of vessels.

As the world watches this exciting development unfold, it’s clear that the success of the ElemX 3D printer is more than just a technological achievement—it’s a testament to the future possibilities for the maritime industry, providing new solutions for the ever-evolving challenges faced on the open sea.

#3DPrintingAtSea #MaritimeTechnology #ElemXPrinter #MarineInnovation #NavyTech #BoatMaintenance #AluminiumAlloy #AdditiveManufacturing #BoatingInnovation #OnDemandPrinting #ADDiTEC #NavalLogistics #SeaRepairRevolution

SHARE:

Related Articles

Comments

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand. Subscribe to view comments and join the conversation. Choose your plan →

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Boating New Zealand
Boating New Zealandhttps://www.boatingnz.co.nz
Boating NZ is New Zealand’s premier marine title devoted to putting its readers behind the wheel of the latest trailerboats, yachts and launches to hit the market. It inspires with practical content and cruising adventures, leads the fleet with its racing coverage and is on the pulse of the latest maritime news and innovation.

More from Boating New Zealand

SV La Vagabonde Damaged In Col...

Australian Adventurers, Yachts-man & woman, and YouTuber's Riley and El...
Boat WorldNewsNews

World’s First Electric Hydrofo...

Over in Sweden, at 7:15 a.m. on a crisp Tuesday morning, Nova set...
Boat BusinessNews

Katoa, a Given 14.5m Sailing C...

The Katoa project began 15 years ago in a 18m x 10m shed on the couple’s Da...
Boat ExperiencesFeaturesOctober 2024

Kiwi’s Cruising Through ...

The Zanzibar coast, with its mix of culture, energy, and seaside beauty, is...
FeaturesNewsThe Norwoods World Tour

Conrad Colman: The Resilient A...

Conrad Colman - A Life Shaped by the Sea Conrad’s early years were...
Introduction and Warm UpNewsSport

This Year Has Marked a Milesto...

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) 2024 celebrated its 65t...
2021International Boat Shows

Follow Us

Weekly Newsletter

Stay up to date with the latest developments shaping New Zealand's Boating world.

Social Media

Follow us on social media to stay in the loop with the latest trends and news shaping New Zealand's boating scene!

HOT OFF THE PRESS

SV La Vagabonde Damaged In Collision – Damage ‘extensive’

Australian Adventurers, Yachts-man & woman, and YouTuber's Riley and Elayna, with their kids Len...
Boat WorldNewsNews

World’s First Electric Hydrofoil Ferry Takes Off – Lake Manapōuri Soon!

Over in Sweden, at 7:15 a.m. on a crisp Tuesday morning, Nova set off from Tappström, a qu...
Boat BusinessNews

Katoa, a Given 14.5m Sailing Catamaran

The Katoa project began 15 years ago in a 18m x 10m shed on the couple’s Dairy Flat property. Most c...
Boat ExperiencesFeaturesOctober 2024

Kiwi’s Cruising Through the Zanzibar Coast: Sunsets, Socials, and Surprises

The Zanzibar coast, with its mix of culture, energy, and seaside beauty, is a magical spot for cruis...
FeaturesNewsThe Norwoods World Tour

Conrad Colman: The Resilient Adventurer Setting Sails and Standards

Conrad Colman - A Life Shaped by the Sea Conrad’s early years were filled with ocean storie...
Introduction and Warm UpNewsSport

Events Worth Adding to Your Calendar

Have an event you'd like to list on Boating New Zealand. Contact us with the details.

Catch all the action of the Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup, happening from 22 Aug to 27 Oct 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. Follow along with excitement at Boating New Zealand.

FISHING

Stabicraft Te Anau Manapouri Fishing Classic, 25 - 27 Nov 2024 in Te Anau Manapouri

Extreme Boats Fishing Tournament, 29 & 30 Nov 2024 in Whitianga

NZ Lure Masters (Catch, Measure and Release competition), 3 & 4 Oct 2025, New Zealand wide

REGATTAS

NZ Match Racing Championships, 14 - 17 Nov 2024 in Auckland

Beneteau Owners Rally, 23 Nov 2024, Auckland to Kawau

Sir Peter Blake Torbay Regatta, 30 Nov - 1 Dec 2024 at Torbay Sailing Club

Rolex Sydney to Hobart, 26 Dec 2024 starts in Sydney, Australia

New Zealand Sail Grand Prix, 18 & 19 Jan 2025 in Auckland

NZ Millenium Cup, 1 - 4 Feb 2025 at Waitemata Harbour

Toyota Youth International Match Racing Cup, 26 Feb - 4 Mar 2025 in Auckland

PIC Insurance Brokers Coastal Classic, 24 Oct 2025 TBC from Auckland to Russell

JET BOAT RACING

UIM World Jetsprint Championships, 25 Jan -2 Feb 2025 at Wanaka (25 & 26 Jan) and Wanganui (1 & 2 Feb)

2024 Golden Homes NZ Jet Boat Marathon, 2025 dates TBC on Southland Rivers (Oreti, Waiau and Mataura)

National Jet Boat Rally 2024, 2025 date TBC at Oliver Road, Bendigo (near Cromwell)

WATERSPORTS

Yamaha Rollo's Marine Bridge 2 Bridge, 8 - 10 Nov 2024 Staged on the Waikato River between Cambridge & Taupiri, based in Hamilton, New Zealand

NON-MOTORISED SPORT

Waka Ama - 2025 National Sprint Championships, 12 - 18 Jan 2025 at Lake Karapiro, Cambridge

Waka Ama - 2025 Secondary School Nationals, 24 - 28 Mar 2025 at Lake Tikitapu, Rotorua

COMMUNITY

NZ Retro Boats Lake Tarawera Gathering, 16 Nov 2024 at Hot Water Beach, Lake Tarawera, Rotorua

Bay of Islands Cruiser's Festival, 20 - 23 Nov 2024 at Bay of Islands Marina, Opua

The New Zealand Sailing Trust 5 Day Sail, 13 - 17 Jan 2025 starting in Auckland

Auckland Boat Show, 6 - 9 March 2025 at Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour, Auckland

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, 15 - 18 May 2025 at Auckland Showgrounds, Auckland

Lake Brunner Classic Boats Get Together, TBC Oct 2025 at Moana

Whangārei Maritime Festival, TBC Oct 2025 at the Whangārei Town Basin

ADVENTURES AT SEA

Features

Kiwi’s Cruising Through the Zanzibar Coast: Sunsets, Socials, and Surprises

The Zanzibar coast, with its mix of culture, energy, and seaside beauty, is a magical spot for cruis...
The Norwoods World Tour

Stone Town, Zanzibar Aug 2024

This is the (liberal) English translation of an old Norwegian classic. And annoyingly, this ear-worm...
Features

Gods And Goats, Not All What They’re Hyped Up To Be

I’m not privy to the details of what my sister said in her prayer to Thor with regards to the weathe...
The Norwoods World Tour

When A Series Of Unfortunate Events Force An Unexpected U-Turn

Saturday a week ago we went to drop off a rental car we had hired to take my sister back to the airp...
One Family’s Boating Journey

One Family’s Boating Journey; That sinking feeling

What a shocking end to our summer! We never saw this plot twister coming!

NEWS TIPS?
Send your photos, videos, stories, and tip-offs to ahoy@boatingnz.co.nz or call us on 022-023-7507.

BOATS FOR SALE