USM leads Corfo project for metal 3D printing in naval manufacturing

Researchers from the Universidad Federico Santa María (USM) are leading a new project to implement Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology in Chile's naval industry. Launched at the ASMAR Valparaíso facilities, the initiative aims to develop domestic capabilities for 3D printing large-scale metal components.

Financed by Corfo through its Technological Absorption Program for Innovation (PATI), the project involves five associated companies as part of the National Naval Construction Policy. The goal is to reduce material waste, shorten replacement times, and decrease reliance on foreign suppliers by establishing local capacities for the fabrication, control, and certification of maritime parts.

According to project leaders Flavio De Barbieri and Pablo Martin Saint-Laurence, the initiative seeks to close technological gaps that currently limit the autonomy of national shipyards. Corfo's Innovation Manager, Jocelyn Olivari, noted that the program intends to modernize small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and strengthen their competitiveness by integrating advanced manufacturing technologies.