Prototyping or manufacturing components for turbines, compressors, etc., the energy industry's product development processes can now be done faster, with greater flexibility and with better materials and optimal performance. Without any doubt, 3D printing technology is the key to making that happen.

Today, many giants in the energy industry such as BP Global, Chevron, Exxon, GE Power, Siemens,... have introduced additive manufaturing into their energy production process and have taken steps to certain progress. It can be said that 3D printing will open paths to a green and sustainable energy future.

HOW IS 3D PRINTING APPLIED IN THE ENERGY INDUSTRY?

Rapid prototyping and reduced product development time

Prototypes are an important part of the product research and development process. Through prototypes, engineers can evaluate and review the performance of parts in the process before putting the product into mass production. This will ensure that the part being studied can operate stably within its design parameters.

In the past, prototypes were often made manually or using molds designed and manufactured by a third party. This process is often quite expensive and requires weeks or even months to complete.

With the speed, accuracy and reasonable cost that 3D printing technology brings, businesses can completely test more samples in a short period of time. Furthermore, 3D printing can quickly create tools or objects with optimized designs for each production process.

Create complex geometric structures

Traditional designs often face many manufacturability barriers. In contrast, with 3D printing technology, engineers can freely design any geometric structure for machine parts. We can completely adjust the technical specifications of machines according to the needs of each project.

3D printing provides practical solutions for implementing ideas with prototypes or models – an extremely useful application in manufacturing projects, storage, and renewable energy plant setups.

In the oil and gas industry, with strict environmental safety regulations, 3D printing can both meet the needs of efficient and cost-effective production, while still complying with environment safety requirements. This technology can create complex product structures that merge many parts into one – helping to optimally reduce assembly time.

Reduce waste and increase sustainability

3D printing technology, also known as additive manufacturing technology, has opened a new direction for the manufacturing industry in general and the energy industry in particular. It allows precise control of product materials, reduces material waste and reduces raw material usage. In addition, residual metal powder after the production process can be reused.

Design and production optimization capabilities can effectively improve costs and avoid waste. 3D printing can also be produced locally without impacting the environment – which also helps businesses reduce transportation costs.

Finally, manufacturers can use 3D printing to create highly durable replacement products. Products using the above replacement parts can often extend their lifespan and limit the amount of waste released into the environment.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF 3D PRINTING IN THE ENERGY INDUSTRY

Impeller produced by SLM®280 machine

Pump impellers are widely used in the energy industry to transport fluids in machinery. With the combination of 4 big companies: Wärtsilä, SLM Solutions, nTopology and Oqton, they have improved the rotor to optimize the production process as well as the weight of this part.

With the optimization of the internal structure, the part weight has been reduced by up to 40% compared to before but the features can still be guaranteed after 500 hours of testing in real operating environments.

Solar panels

Engineers at Sandia National Laboratories have applied 3D printing technology to design solar panels. Sandia has designed, manufactured, and researched solar energy collectors with up to 20% higher efficiency than old technology. Solar panels are being applied at the Solar Energy Research Institute in India and the United States (SERIIUS).

Other applications

Fuel Nozzles, Burners, Combustion Liners, Transition Pieces

Vanes, Shrouds, Heat Shields and Rotating parts Blades, Bearings​

Impellers, Valves, Oilfield Downhole Toolings, Heat Exchangers, etc ​

Vinnotek: Your Trusted Partner for 3D Printing Design and Simulation Solutions 

To fully leverage the potential of 3D printing, professional design and simulation services are essential. At Vinnotek, we pride ourselves on being a reliable partner, providing 3D printing design and simulation services for critical components across various industries. 

We not only deliver the benefits of advanced 3D printing technology but also serve as the official representative of Nikon SLM Solutions, one of the world's leading metal 3D printer manufacturers, and Titomic, a pioneer in large-scale additive manufacturing applications such as tools, parts, and machinery components, replacing traditional manufacturing methods. 

Combining creativity and professionalism, we are committed to partnering with your business to optimize design, reduce production costs, and enhance work efficiency. 

Contact Vinnotek today to experience innovation and advancement in your industry. 

CONTACT INFOR:   

☎Phone number: (+84)905300382  

📩Email: sales@vinnotek.com  

💻Website: https://vinnotek.com/  

⚡LinkedIn: https://tinyurl.com/VINNOTEKlinkedin  

⚡Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/VINNOTEK