Here at 3D Rapid Print, one of the fastest growing 3D Printing companies in the Thames Valley, we like to keep abreast of the latest innovations in 3D printing.
On February 25th 2022, The University of Maine Advanced Structures and Composites Centre (UMaine) announced that it had achieved what it described as “a groundbreaking milestone in composite manufacturing,” having manufactured 2 3D printed prototype logistics vessels for the U.S. Department of Defence via its record breaking 3D printer. The longer of the 2 vessels was designed to simulate ship-to-shore movement of 20ft (6.10m) containers representing equipment and supplies, with UMaine proclaiming that it was the largest 3D printed vessel of its kind ever made.
The second vessel had the capacity to transport a Marine rifle-squad with organic equipment and 3 days of supplies; the 2 prototypes could also be connected to maximize their transport capability. UMaine claimed that landing craft utility vessels can take over a year to produce via conventional means, whereas it 3D printed and built 1 of its 2 vessels in just a month. A previous prototype vessel was successfully 3D printed in 2020 and made from 25% aluminium, whereas UMaine’s 2 most recent vessels were made from multi-material composites with engineering polymer and fibre reinforcement.
In October 2019, UMaine received 3 Guinness World Records for “Largest prototype polymer 3D printer,” Largest solid 3D-printed item” and “Largest 3D-printed boat.” The ceremony was attended by more than 250 federal and state officials, business executives, University of Maine System leaders and community members. At the time, UMaine claimed that its 3D printer could consume 500lbs (227kg) of plastic polymer pellets in an hour and could 3D print an object measuring 100ft (30.48m) long, 22ft (6.71m) wide and 10ft (3.05m) tall.
Named 3Dirigio, the 3D printed boat measured 25ft (7.62m) long, weighed 5,000 lbs (2,268kg), was 3D printed in 72 hours and cost $40,000 to make. To demonstrate its seaworthiness, it was placed in the facility’s ocean simulator wave basin. (The name 3Dirigio is a reference to the State of Maine’s motto “Dirigio,” which is Latin for “I Direct” or “I Lead.”)
3D printing is an amazing tool. It can grow your small business or start a mini revolution in an industry. Explore what it can do for you when you contact us today.
Disclaimer: Featured image of “Admiral Forrest Sherman, USN, inspecting Rhine River Patrol in 1950” is a work of a sailor or employee of the U.S. Navy, taken or made as part of that person’s official duties. As a work of the U.S. federal government, it is in the public domain in the United States.
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