The Utilization of 3D Printing in O&G Applications

3D Printing, also known as Additive Manufacturing (AM), is a manufacturing method that has revolutionized the production of engineered parts, by enabling companies from multiple different industrial sectors such as transportation and medical, and ultimately Oil & Gas to prototype or re-build and replace any part, regardless of geometrical complexity. Such disruption has been enabled by the unique characteristics of 3D Printing that allow for logistical flexibility and full independence when manufacturing parts to repair existing equipment and re-commission them for operation. This use-case is particularly valuable if the objective is to repair equipment considered obsolete, where finding replacement parts poses a challenge. Detachment from the traditional supply chain is a unique strategic position for any company to explore in order to better predict and control its product output. More so in an industry such as Oil & Gas, where business and operation continuity are heavily prioritized, and any potential disruption can cause significant losses of revenue and fossil fuel supply. 3D Printing, due to the flexible nature of the technology, can play a considerable role in tackling challenges that compromise Oil & Gas production by minimizing downtime. While exploring the potential of 3D Printing, decreasing downtime is a consequence of localizing production of components, which in itself results in reduced lead times and cost compared to importing the same commodities from overseas markets. Also, from a carbon emission perspective, 3D Printing is a less wasteful process than subtractive manufacturing (i.e. milling and machining) and facilitates the production of complex geometries. In addition, 3D Printing plays a role in eliminating physical storage of components as a support technology that enables digital platforms serving as databases of digital replicas for existing components to be ready for 3D Printing on demand. This type of database is typically designated as Digital Inventory. This means that in the future, companies may be able to keep lower stock of critical parts knowing they can be replicated as needed. Consequently, less energy will be consumed by negating the need for large stock-up activities, and with the relocation of manufacturing activities the shipping carbon footprint is reduced.