Norwegian energy company Vår Energi is integrating additive manufacturing into its operations, focusing on producing necessary parts when and where they are needed.
Vår Energi, a significant player in the Norwegian oil and gas sector, has adopted a strategic approach to additive manufacturing, aiming to leverage its capabilities for efficient and localized production. This strategy is driven by the principle of 'printing what is needed,' emphasizing a shift from traditional inventory management to on-demand creation of components.
The company is exploring various applications of 3D printing to enhance its operational efficiency and reduce lead times for critical parts. By bringing production closer to the point of use, Vår Energi seeks to minimize logistical complexities and associated costs. This approach is particularly beneficial for remote offshore installations where timely access to spare parts can be a challenge.
Vår Energi's initiative involves identifying specific components that can be effectively produced using additive manufacturing technologies. The focus is on parts that are either difficult to source quickly through conventional supply chains or those whose demand is intermittent. This allows for a more agile response to maintenance and repair needs, thereby improving uptime and overall productivity.
The long-term vision for Vår Energi includes a wider integration of additive manufacturing across its asset portfolio. This could potentially extend to the development of customized solutions and the optimization of existing designs for 3D printing, further unlocking the technology's potential for cost savings and performance improvements in the energy industry.
Vår Energi's adoption of additive manufacturing for on-demand parts production signifies a crucial trend in the energy sector: decentralizing manufacturing for increased agility and reduced reliance on complex global supply chains. This strategy directly addresses the need for rapid component replacement in remote or harsh environments, a common challenge in oil and gas operations. The ability to 'print what is needed' aligns with broader industry goals of cost reduction and operational resilience.
Edited by the news editor with AI and translated into English from the original report — please refer to the original source.