ABS and Radian Forge Collaborate on Digital Qualification for Additive Manufacturing
Agreement combines manufacturing data and technical review to support component qualification
(HOUSTON) ABS and Radian Forge have signed a joint development project (JDP) to evaluate the use of digital manufacturing data in the qualification of metal components produced through wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM).
As the maritime industry explores additive manufacturing to address component availability and long production lead times, confidence in the consistency and performance of manufactured parts is critical. The JDP will examine whether manufacturing process parameters, real-time sensor data, inspection records and material testing results can provide a reliable technical basis for verifying and validating WAAM-produced components.
“Digital qualification has an important role to play in the adoption of additive manufacturing across the marine and offshore sectors. We are proud to work with Radian Forge to strengthen confidence in additive manufacturing by improving how qualification evidence is generated, evaluated and traced,” said Michael Kei, ABS Vice President, Technology.
Under the agreement, Radian Forge will manufacture components for testing and validation, collect manufacturing and sensor data, and conduct applicable testing. ABS will provide independent technical review, evaluate test results and assess the proposed methodology and its potential application.
“Traditional manufacturing timelines can create significant challenges when critical components are needed. Our goal is to build confidence in a manufacturing process that can respond to those needs. Partnering with ABS gives us an opportunity to rigorously evaluate how process data and material performance can support that objective,” said Jeff Yeager, CEO of Radian Forge.
ABS supports the adoption of additive manufacturing for the maritime industry through technical requirements and guidance, including the ABS Requirements for Additive Manufacturing. Download a copy here. Learn more about how ABS is supporting additive manufacturing here.
Photo courtesy of Radian Forge
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About ABS
ABS, a global leader in classification services, is focused on delivering a safer, cleaner future for the marine and offshore industries. For over 160 years, ABS has been setting standards for safety and excellence and continues to innovate in the fields of clean technology, digitalization and artificial intelligence, providing industry-leading technical advisory services. With a global network of surveyors, engineers, technology specialists and support staff, ABS works with industry leaders including its members and clients around the world to improve safety in operational performance and efficiency with innovative solutions for the complete life cycle of marine and offshore assets.
About Radian Forge
Radian Forge is a Portsmouth, Virginia-based advanced manufacturing company developing responsive, on-demand manufacturing capacity for America's maritime and defense industrial base. The company combines industrial robotics, wire arc additive manufacturing and digital process monitoring to provide an alternative manufacturing pathway for critical metal components.