Client & Context:
As part of a Joint Industry Programme with Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Pelagus 3D delivered a redesigned return oil standpipe—a critical part in managing oil levels for vessel engine systems.
The Challenge:
The traditionally manufactured standpipe weighed 75kg, made up of 10 separate components, and required a crane for installation. Damage to this component could trigger oil leaks and alarms in the Hydraulic Cylinder Unit (HCU), causing the main engine to slow down, directly affecting vessel operations. Traditional manufacturing also involved long lead times—up to 135 days.
The Solution:
Using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) in Stainless Steel 316L, the part was completely redesigned as a single additively manufactured unit, optimized for lightweight performance and operational safety.
The Results:
- >90% weight reduction: from 75kg to 7.5kg
- 10 components consolidated into 1
- Crane no longer required for installation
- Lead time reduced from 135 days to just 15 days
- Improved maintainability and reduced vessel downtime
Client Testimonial:
“We are very satisfied with this great result. Workability and safety during installation and replacement will improve dramatically due to a 90% weight reduction by AM technology. This is one of the most suitable technologies for Sustainable Development Goals, as it reduces material use. We expect to expand its application to various parts.”
– Yoshinori Daido, Lead Engineer, AM Project for Marine Machinery, Kawasaki Heavy Industries
Why It Matters:
This project exemplifies how on-demand manufacturing is transforming marine operations—not just by cutting lead times, but by enabling safer, lighter, and more sustainable components. For OEMs and fleet operators, these advances reduce operational risk and maintenance burden, while improving part availability and installation flexibility.