Huisman & RAMLAB initiate consortium to produce world’s heaviest 3D printed steel crane hook
Huisman and RAMLAB have initiated a project to produce a large offshore crane hook using the 3D printing technique ‘Wire & Arc Additive Manufacturing’ (WAAM). The hook, which is based on a Huisman 4-prong hook design, will employ 3D printing benefits such that the product will be hollow, significantly saving on material usage and production lead time. The hook will measure over 1 by 1 meter in outer dimensions and weigh close to 1000 kg, making it the world’s largest 3D printed steel product in terms of weight. Its Safe Working Load (SWL) will be 325mt. At the beginning of this year, Huisman successfully load tested a 3D printed offshore crane hook with an SWL of 80mt.
What makes this project particularly unique is that three leading classification societies, DNV GL, Bureau Veritas and ABS, have joined this project. In close collaboration with experts from these class societies the 3D printed offshore crane hook will not only receive triple certification, but a significant step can be made in adopting rules for 3D printed products for the maritime and offshore industry. voestalpine Böhler Welding has joined the consortium to provide feed stock and materials expertise. Autodesk provides support by means of additive manufacturing software.
About the consortium
The consortium is formed by the following parties: Huisman, RAMLAB, Autodesk, DNV GL, Bureau Veritas, ABS and voestalpine Böhler Welding. The shared project goal is to produce a class-certified offshore crane hook, and to advance common rules and guidelines for WAAM in offshore/maritime context specifically.