Caracol has collaborated with V2 Group to launch its first additively produced monolithic catamaran for open waters.
The 6m long craft was produced in a single print, using a the Heron AM robotic platform to develop the product, with the companies intending to industrialise and scale the craft.
“Large-format additive manufacturing robotic systems have been transforming the nautical sector by offering competitive advantages such as highly customizable designs, efficient material usage, and a significant reduction in environmental impact,” said a spokesperson from Caracol.
“This project marks a revolutionary milestone thanks to the collaboration with V2 Group, a Spanish company specializing in the design, engineering and production of leisure crafts, that has expanded its capabilities on production with Caracol’s large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) platform for nautical and naval applications.”
Seamless structure
The boat hull was produced in a single, uninterrupted 160-hour print, resulting in a seamless, monolithic structure.
Prior to the full-scale print, targeted tests were conducted on critical sections, focusing on areas with complex reinforcements and integrated features for performance and printability.
“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,” added the spokesperson.
“From design and testing (FEM and hydrostatic analysis), material selection to work with a recycled material and to optimize printing times, finishing with CNC, gel coating, painting, and testing of the final hull, every aspect has been carefully refined to identify the key elements needed to scale production efficiently, sustainably, and economically.
Nautical sector
“This strategic approach is crucial for turning this technology into a widely applicable solution in the nautical sector.”
The companies involved say that the the industry is seeing a shift towards more custom and small batch productions of vessels.
And they say the development of the catamaran demonstrates the feasibility of robotic large-format additive manufacturing and establishes the foundation for a new era in the manufacturing of boats and nautical components.
Caracol is an industrial 3D printer manufacturer and large format additive manufacturing technology provider.
