V2 Boats, a Spanish company specialising in the design, engineering, and large-format 3D printing for nautical and naval applications, and Caracol AM, an Italian leader in advanced large-format 3D printing technologies have successfully developed the first functional 6-meter-long large-format 3D printed monolithic boat for open waters.
This catamaran was produced using robotic 3D printing technology and aimed at developing a product that can be industrialized and scaled, attentively researching the full process: from design to materials, to production and post-processing with the requirements needed by the naval industry.
Large-format 3D Printed Monolithic Boat
Large-format 3D printing technology is transforming the nautical sector by offering competitive advantages such as highly customizable designs, efficient material usage, and a significant reduction in environmental impact.
This boat is a tangible example of how advanced 3D printing processes can accelerate production times, minimize material waste, and enable the creation of high-quality floating structures and boats tailored to the growing demands of a global market.
Notably, this project was conceived with a long-term vision, meticulously analysing every step of the process to lay the groundwork for future industrialization of such boats. From material selection to the optimization of printing times, assembly, and testing, every aspect has been carefully refined to identify the key elements needed to scale production efficiently, sustainably, and economically. This strategic approach is crucial for turning this technology into a widely applicable solution in the nautical sector.
Caracol AM Proves feasibility of large-format 3D printing
This achievement not only demonstrates the feasibility of robotic large-format 3D printing but also establishes the foundation for a new era in the manufacturing of boats and nautical components.
V2 Boats and Caracol AM are committed to the continuous improvement of this manufacturing approach to broaden its applications in this sector, including transitioning toward the industrialisation of the process. This will pave the way for a more scalable, sustainable, and accessible production model within the sector.
The collaboration between these two European companies strengthens their leadership in nautical and naval innovation, positioning 3D printing as a key solution to tackle the future challenges of the industry. With a clear focus on industrialisation, the potential of this technology to transform nautical production is virtually limitless.
MAMBO – 3D Printed Fiberglass Boat
In 2020 at the Genova Boat Show, Moi Composites, a tech start-up that 3D prints custom products using advanced composite materials, unveiled MAMBO (Motor Additive Manufacturing BOat), a 3D printed fiberglass boat. MAMBO represented the first ever real functional boat to be 3D printed in continuous fiberglass thermoset material. The sleek blue shiny boat with next generation design and manufacturing was an instant attraction at the show.
It was digitally crafted in patented 3D printing technology, Continuous Fiber Manufacturing (CFM) that has the capability to rapidly manufacture fiber integrated 3D printed parts unlike many of the prevalent composite manufacturing technologies. The product thus manufactured through the CFM technology are super strong, ultra-durable and lightweight. Moi’s robotic system also allowed for large parts to be manufactured.
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