In the rapidly evolving landscape of the energy sector, innovative manufacturing technologies are playing a crucial role in addressing efficiency, sustainability, and reliability challenges. Velo3D’s metal additive manufacturing (AM) technology stands out as a beacon in this transformation.
This blog provides a summary of various real-world, energy-related applications and the future potential of Velo3D’s solutions, showcasing how they’re shaping the future of energy production.
Case Studies: Real-World Applications of Velo3D’s Technology
- IMI Critical Engineering (Flow Control Valves): IMI Critical Engineering, a key player in the oil and gas industry, collaborated with Velo3D to produce choke valve trims. Utilizing Velo3D’s Golden Print file, they achieved consistent performance and material properties across six global sites. This case study exemplifies how Velo3D’s technology enables precise, reproducible manufacturing on a global scale.
- Rotating Machinery Services (Energy Impellers): Rotating Machinery Services (RMS) partnered with Velo3D to produce a large-scale shrouded impeller using Inconel® 718. The use of Velo3D’s large-format Sapphire XC metal 3D printer and innovative manufacturing techniques allowed RMS to overcome challenges associated with producing large parts, demonstrating Velo3D’s capability to handle complex geometries and large dimensions.
- Upwing Energy (Rotors): Upwing Energy, focusing on environmentally friendly energy solutions, used Velo3D’s technology for their Subsurface Compressor System™ (SCS). They found that the parts printed from Velo3D’s Sapphire XC printer surpassed the performance of traditionally machined components, withstanding rotational speeds of over 55,000 rpm. This shows Velo3D’s potential in producing high-quality, durable parts for critical energy applications.
Streamlining High Mix, Low Volume Production
Velo3D’s metal additive manufacturing technology is particularly adept at high-mix, low volume production. This capability allows for on-demand production of specific, customized parts. For instance, companies like Upwing leverage this flexibility to produce components optimized for specific environmental conditions, leading to more efficient and adaptable extraction solutions.
The Concept of Part-Family Qualification
Velo3D is paving the way for a more streamlined qualification process in the energy sector. The concept of “Part Family Qualification” proposes qualifying a group of parts based on shared manufacturing characteristics. This approach could significantly expedite the qualification process, reduce risks, and lead to efficiency gains, with Velo3D’s consistent manufacturing process playing a crucial role.
Advancing Industry 4.0 in the Energy Sector
Velo3D’s technology is not just about producing parts; it’s about embodying the spirit of Industry 4.0. By integrating digital inventory systems, advanced quality control measures, and scalable manufacturing processes, Velo3D is setting a new standard for the energy sector’s future. This approach promises a more responsive, adaptive, and efficient supply chain, essential in a sector that is rapidly evolving and facing increasing demands.
A Vision for the Future
As the energy sector continues to navigate its expansion and transformation, the role of additive manufacturing becomes increasingly vital. Velo3D, with its innovative solutions, is ready to help lead this charge. Velo3D metal additive manufacturing technology offers a future where customized solutions can be rapidly deployed, ensuring that the energy sector remains dynamic, efficient, and responsive to global energy needs.
Embracing the Metal Additive Revolution
Velo3D’s impact on the energy sector is clear: it offers a path to more efficient, reliable, and adaptable manufacturing processes. Through real-world applications and a vision for the future, Velo3D demonstrates how its metal additive manufacturing technology can revolutionize the way the energy sector operates, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.
For a deeper understanding of Velo3D’s transformative role in the energy sector, we encourage you to download our eBook, Power Plants to Pipelines: Metal AM’s Role in Energy Production, which provides an in-depth look at the cutting-edge solutions and case studies discussed here, offering valuable insights into the future of energy production.
