Companies claim credit for first functional 6m catamaran for open waters.
Insert your preferred nautical pun here.*
Caracol AM, the Italian supplier of large-format 3D printing technologies, and the Spanish nautical engineering firm, V2 Group, have announced the successful production of what they claim is the world’s first functional, six-meter monolithic catamaran for open waters.
The vessel was produced using Caracol’s robotic 3D printing technology, reportedly as a demonstration of its potential in industrial contexts. According to Caracol, the boat is a tangible example of how 3D printing can accelerate production and minimize material waste in nautical applications. More than a mere demonstration, this 3D printed catamaran is intended to serve as a model of what can be accomplished through additive manufacturing (AM) for nautical applications.
“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,” reads a Caracol press release. “This strategic approach is crucial for turning this technology into a widely applicable solution in the nautical sector.”
Astute readers may recall the promise of 3D printed, autonomous ferries for last year’s Paris Olympic Games from the Dutch company Roboat. That promise was, sadly, unfulfilled, though the autonomous ferry did eventually make it to Paris for demonstration last November.
It’s difficult to compare the relative sizes of these 3D printed vessels, especially since Roboat’s fleet includes both smaller water taxis and larger ferries. However, Roboat III, developed by the company’s founders in 2022, is stated to be four meters long with seating for six passengers, while images and videos of its more recent autonomous ferry suggest that the new vessel is considerably larger. Roboat also has the “advantage” of being autonomous.
All of this suggests that AM watercraft are a growing business, and potentially a competitive one as well.
*Some suggestions:
- “This 3D printed boat is making waves!”
- “It’s a boatload of additive manufacturing innovation!”
- “Looks like smooth sailing for large-format AM!”
