3D-Printed Boat by 3Dirigo Sets New Record

French additive manufacturing company 3Dirigo has achieved a significant milestone by 3D printing a functional boat. The vessel, named 'Le Grand Large', measures 5.6 meters (approximately 18.4 feet) in length and 1.8 meters (approximately 5.9 feet) in width. This accomplishment marks a new record for the largest single-piece object ever produced using the fused filament fabrication (FFF) process.

The printing process for 'Le Grand Large' utilized a large-scale 3D printer equipped with a robotic arm, allowing for the considerable dimensions of the boat. The material used was a composite filament, specifically a blend of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) and flax fibers, chosen for its structural integrity and environmental benefits. The entire printing operation took approximately 260 hours to complete.

Following the printing phase, the boat underwent a finishing process that included sanding and the application of a protective coating. 3Dirigo has stated that the boat is designed for recreational use and is capable of navigating on water. The company aims to showcase the potential of large-scale additive manufacturing for producing complex, functional objects, potentially including maritime applications.

This development highlights the growing capabilities of additive manufacturing in producing large-scale components and end-use products. The use of recycled and sustainable materials further underscores a trend towards more environmentally conscious manufacturing practices within the 3D printing industry.