Damen and CEAD Collaborate to Innovate 3D-Printed HDPE Vessels

[By: CEAD]

Exciting news is brewing at CEAD’s Maritime Submission Centre Damen Compact crafts (DCCr),part of teh Damen Shipyards Group,as they team up with high-tech innovator CEAD to create a 3D-printed HDPE Workboat (HWB) using their unique CEAD®HDPro material. This collaboration will unfold at the MAC in Delft, where these two Dutch pioneers are set to dive into the world of large-format additive manufacturing tailored for maritime needs.

The goal? To see how 3D printing can revolutionize vessel production—making it quicker, greener, adn more adaptable. The HWB is designed to be multifunctional, ready for tasks like inspection, support missions, patrol duties, and logistical operations. By utilizing 3D printing for the boat’s hull construction, designers gain unprecedented creative freedom while also paving the way for incorporating recycled and eco-friendly materials.

CEAD brings its prowess in large-scale 3D printing technology to this venture by developing advanced techniques that can handle top-notch HDPE blends. This project exemplifies how merging tech innovation with market insights can lead to groundbreaking advancements.

“this partnership showcases how cutting-edge technology can yield real-world solutions in maritime,” shared Charlene van Wingerden, Chief Business Development Officer at CEAD. “The MAC was established precisely to foster such innovations—creating a 3D-printed HWB perfectly illustrates our mission.”

“At Damen, innovation and standardization are ingrained in our culture,” added Nick Pruissen, Managing Director at damen Compact Crafts. “With 3D printing on our side, we can swiftly adapt to meet customer demands—a thrilling leap toward smart and sustainable solutions!”

Together towards a new era of maritime production
In this initiative, Damen and CEAD leverage their strengths: CEAD as a trailblazer in large-format composite printing and Damen as experts in crafting compact workboats suited for diverse applications.

This initial step opens doors to exploring fresh production methods within the maritime sector—emphasizing sustainability and efficiency while driving innovation forward. If accomplished with the HWB project, it could pave the way for broader uses of additive manufacturing across shipbuilding industries worldwide.