Damen Compact Crafts (DCCr) and CEAD have announced a new collaboration to develop a 3D-printed HDPE Workboat using CEAD’s HDPro material. The project will be conducted at CEAD’s Maritime Application Center in Delft, Netherlands. This initiative brings together two Dutch companies to examine how large-format additive manufacturing could be applied to shipbuilding.
The project aims to assess how 3D printing technology might enable faster, more sustainable, and flexible vessel production. The HDPE Workboat is designed as a multipurpose vessel for inspection, support, patrol, and logistics operations. The 3D-printed hull provides greater design freedom and potentially allows for the integration of recycled materials.
CEAD contributes its expertise in large-format 3D printing and is developing print technologies for processing advanced HDPE blends. The collaboration leverages CEAD’s technical capabilities with Damen’s maritime industry knowledge to create practical applications.
“This collaboration demonstrates how technology can directly contribute to practical solutions in the maritime sector,” said Charléne van Wingerden, Chief Business Development Officer at CEAD. “The MAC was founded to accelerate exactly these kinds of innovations – and a 3D-printed HWB is a perfect example of that.”
Nick Pruissen, Managing Director at Damen Compact Crafts, stated: “Innovation and standardisation are part of our DNA at Damen. 3D printing allows us to respond more quickly and flexibly to what our customers really need. It’s an exciting step toward smart, sustainable solutions that work.”
The partners view this initial collaboration as an exploration of new production processes for the maritime industry with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. If successful, the 3D-printed workboat could indicate potential for broader adoption of additive manufacturing in shipbuilding applications.