Additive manufacturing in the maritime industry: Impact on production processes, workers, and end-users

Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies are revolutionising global production processes, offering substantial benefits to the maritime industry by eliminating the reliance on models and moulds. This shift toward a sustainable, zero-waste future presents significant opportunities and considerations for both workers and end-users.The adoption of automated 3D printing necessitates workforce retraining, with a focus on digital technology skills, reducing the reliance on manual labour. Proactive training programs are vital to equip operators for this evolving landscape. Additionally, studies are exploring occupational health-related aspects of 3D printing, assessing whether it could create a safer working environment compared to traditional manufacturing processes.AM customisation capabilities empower designers and engineers to prioritize human factors, enhancing user experience, comfort, and usability. This approach fosters innovations aligned with the preferences and needs of end-users.This paper aims to explore the impact of AM technologies on manufacturing processes and design freedom within the maritime industry, emphasizing opportunities for improved efficiency, sustainability, and adaptive design practices to meet the sector's dynamic needs.