The nautical industry is celebrating what is considered to be a technological milestone due to the collaboration between V2 Group, a Spanish company specialising in the design, engineering and large-format 3D printing for nautical and naval applications, and Caracol AM, an Italian provider of advanced large-format 3D printing technologies.Â
Together, they have developed what they claim to be the first functional 6-meter-long monolithic catamaran for open waters. This boat was produced using robotic 3D printing technology and aimed at developing a product that can be industrialised and scaled, attentively researching the full process: from design to materials, to production and post-processing with the requirements needed by the naval industry.
A decisive step toward sustainability, efficiency, and industrialisation
Large-format 3D printing technology is transforming the nautical sector by offering competitive advantages such as highly customisable designs, efficient material usage and a significant reduction in environmental impact.
This boat is a tangible example of how advanced 3D printing processes can accelerate production times, minimise material waste, and enable the creation of high-quality floating structures and boats tailored to the growing demands of a global market.
Notably, this project was conceived with a long-term vision, meticulously analyzing every step of the process to lay the groundwork for future industrialisation of such boats. From material selection to the optimisation 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. This strategic approach is crucial for turning this technology into a widely applicable solution in the nautical sector.
A promising future for the nautical industry
This achievement not only demonstrates the feasibility of robotic large-format 3D printing but also establishes the foundation for a new era in the manufacturing of boats and nautical components.
V2 Group and Caracol AM say they are committed to the continuous improvement of this manufacturing approach to broaden its applications in this sector, including transitioning toward the industrialisation of the process. This will pave the way for a more scalable, sustainable, and accessible production model within the sector.