Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha System will introduce 3D printing technology at the U.S. shipyard acquired last year. 3D printing is considered a key technology that enhances shipyard construction capability, along with robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). Hanwha aims to target not only the cargo transport ship market but also the liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier and warship newbuilding markets through the U.S. shipyard.
According to the shipbuilding industry on the 16th, the U.S. shipyard has been implementing metal additive manufacturing technology since its acquisition by Hanwha. The shipyard typically uses parts supplied by partner companies for shipbuilding, but it plans to directly manufacture some parts to shorten the construction period.
The domestic shipbuilding industry has shortened the construction period by manufacturing engine parts, known as free chambers, which were previously entirely dependent on imports, using 3D printing technology. Various piping and bell mouths to prevent ship damage can also be produced with 3D printing technology.
The U.S. shipyard is providing training to workers on additive manufacturing design, 3D printer operation, and digital production methods. In addition, they are working to enhance construction capabilities through various measures, including digitizing parts information, introducing a central control system via satellite positioning, and implementing training equipment utilizing augmented reality (VR) technology.
Hanwha Ocean is promoting plans to strengthen the construction capabilities of the U.S. shipyard, aiming to build and supply cargo transport vessels and high-value vessels locally in the U.S. They are particularly focused on LNG carriers. Hanwha estimates that the U.S. will need a total of 11 LNG transport ships by 2028. Considering that the cost of an LNG carrier is about $255 million (approximately 352.5 billion won), this amounts to a market of around 3.8 trillion won.
To enter the U.S. LNG carrier market, Hanwha is also pursuing reflagging through its local shipping corporation, Hanwha Shipping. This involves changing the national registration of ships built in Korea to the U.S., specifically targeting two LNG carriers ordered by Hanwha Ocean through Hanwha Shipping in February. Hanwha possesses eligibility for local ship registration through Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha System, which own the U.S. shipyard.
Hanwha plans to also venture into the warship construction market through the U.S. shipyard. 3D printing technology is expected to play a significant role in this endeavor, due to the characteristics of government contracts, which can lead to substantial disadvantages from delays in delivery and demand for specialized parts.