Norwegians developing subsea 3D printing tech

Norway’s Kongsberg Ferrotech has teamed up with Equinor, SINTEF and Gassco to develop and test 3D printing technology as a repair method on the seabed.

The 3D printing technology will be integrated in the company’s underwater maintenance and repair robot the Nautilus.

According to Kongsberg Ferrotech, the technology will allow for in-situ repairs of subsea components like flowlines and conductors by use of additive manufacturing techniques.

This is expected to significantly extend the lifetime of the assets.

The Research Council of Norway is contributing NOK 21 million (approximately €2 million) in financial support for the project.

“Combining 3D printing technology with Kongsberg Ferrotech’s robots, opens many exciting new possibilities for subsea repairs and modifications. We are looking forward to a close collaboration with our industry partners,” said Brede Laerum, head of 3D printing at Equinor.