Huisman and RAMLAB start project for the production of 3D large offshore crane hook

Construction company Huisman from Schiedam and Rotterdam 3D metal printing laboratory RAMLAB have started a project for the production of a large offshore crane hook, using 3D printing technology ‘Wire & Arc Additive Manufacturing’ (WAAM), Port of Rotterdam said in its press release.

The hook, which is based on a design from the Huisman four-prong hook, measures over 1 m x 1 m. One of the advantages of 3D printing technology is that the hook can be made hollow, resulting in considerable savings in material use and production time. In spite of this, the monster still weighs a thousand kilos and can be used to lift 325 megatonnes. It is actually not Huisman’s first 3D-printed offshore crane hook. Earlier this year the company already tested a smaller version, which can be used for a safe working load of eighty tonnes.

The manufacture also involves a development process. Three classification bureaus (DNV GL, Bureau Veritas and ABS) were involved in this, each of which will certify the crane hook. This will enable an important step to be made in determining regulations for 3D-printed products for the maritime and offshore industry.

RAMLAB is the first field lab with 3D metal printers to focus on port-related industry. RAMLAB uses 3D metal printers (also called additive manufacturing) for the development of knowledge in the area of metal printing, 3D design and certification. The laboratory was initiated by the Port of Rotterdam Authority, InnovationQuarter and RDM Makerspace and fits in the Port Authority’s aim of developing new port activities through innovation. The world’s first certificated 3D-printed ship propeller, the WAAMpeller, was produced in the centre last year.