AML3D prints complex ship propeller

Additive manufacturing specialist AML3D has shipped a stainless steel marine propeller to 3D Printing Corporation, a Japanese based 3D printing consultancy firm.

The 316L propeller (pictured) will be made available to 3DPC’s marine clients as a ‘showpiece’ to demonstrate the advantages of AML3D’s Wire Arc Manufacturing (“WAM®”) technology over the traditional casting methods.

The company said its relationship with 3DPC was an opportunity to capitalise on the growing global market for propellers that is anticipated to reach US$5.4bn by 2021.

The purchase order for the showpiece propeller is valued at $10,000, but is anticipated to lead to significant commercial contracts with various 3DPC clients.

AML3D’s Managing Director Andrew Sales said: “We are proud to be able to deliver a complex propeller blade trial piece and look forward to expanding our presence in both the Asia Pacific region and global marine sector with the support of 3DPC.”

Picture: AML3D

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