The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published a new recommendation, Rec.186, that meets the need for a standardized approach to integrating Additive Manufacturing (AM) into marine and offshore applications.
Entitled “Rec. 186: Additively Manufactured Metallic Parts for Marine and Offshore Applications”, this recommendation provides a framework for the qualification, approval, and certification of metal 3D printed parts.
This recommendation provides detailed guidance for key aspects of the AM process, including part design, feedstock selection, AM processes, post-processing, and inspection/testing. By incorporating recognized international standards such as ISO/ASTM 52900 and AWS D20.1, it aligns AM technology with existing Unified Requirements, particularly UR W for materials and welding, ensuring equivalent reliability and safety.
Key areas the framework covers
The recommendation covers the production of parts built with Powder Bed Fusion (PBF), Directed Energy Deposition (DED), and Binder Jetting (BJT), with detailed process-specific parameters. Materials concerned are therefore AM feedstocks, including powder, wire, and binder feedstocks, including recycling protocols for sustainability.
It introduces tiered testing levels (AM Levels 1-3) for class and certified items, enabling customized testing based on application criticality.
For the pre-manufacturing stage, the recommendation provides insights into how to ensure design optimization, topology adjustment, and pre-build simulation to deliver robust performance under marine conditions.
As far as post-processing is concerned, the recommendation provides insights into inspection and non-Destructive Testing (NDT), particularly solutions to address anisotropic properties and potential imperfections (e.g., porosity, lack of fusion) through advanced NDT methods like CT scans.
Moving forward, IACS will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to expand the application of AM in safety-critical marine components. By encouraging shipyards, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and vessel operators to adopt AM, it paves the way for innovation in shipbuilding and offshore engineering, marking a pivotal step in the safe and standardized adoption of additive manufacturing.
Commenting on the publication of Rec. 186, Alexandre Astruc, Chair of IACS’ Expert Group on Materials & Welding, said:
“Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is increasingly becoming a valuable tool for the marine sector, offering a flexible, speedy and customisable solution for environments where the consequences for safety, sustainability or operational uptime can otherwise be significant. While its potential for rapid production is notable, its true strength lies in its ability to provide innovative, on-demand solutions tailored to complex maritime challenges. In developing Rec 186, IACS is seeking to safeguard the benefits offered by additive manufacturing by ensuring it is underpinned by a standardised framework for verification and certification that gives confidence to all parties.”
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