New Way of Manufacturing

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is rapidly gaining prominence across industries, not only for prototyping but as a viable method for regular production. The advantages of AM, including design flexibility, reduced lead times, and supply chain efficiency, are clear. However, the lack of relevant standards has been a limiting factor in its widespread adoption. Recognizing this challenge, DNV has taken a significant step by creating Additive Manufacturing standards, specifically DNV-ST-B203 for the Energy and Maritime sectors. NAMI (National Additive Manufacturing & Innovation Company) is a leading Saudi-based company in Riyadh that specializes in additive manufacturing. Backed by industry giant 3D Systems and Dussur, NAMI is dedicated to accelerating the adoption of 3D printed products and maximizing their local impact. On September 11, 2023, NAMI extended a warm welcome to DNV and Aramco's CSD (Consultant Services Department) to mark a significant milestone in our ongoing journey towards facility qualification. Our immediate objective was to achieve AMC 1 level Facility Certification by mid-October, encompassing the qualification of the Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (LB-PBF) process with a focus on one Build Process Qualification (BPQ). NAMI also aims to secure AMC 2 and 3-level facility qualification by completing Part Qualification and Production Specification (PPS) by the end of 2023. This certification aligns with DNV AM Standard DNV-ST-B203 and DNV's service specification DNV-ST-0568. The DNV Audit involved three main steps: reviewing NAMI's AM facility documentation, production, and quality control procedures, evaluating the effectiveness of traceability of the parts through the deployment of NAMI's AM procedures, and witnessing the Build Process Qualification (BPQ) build. Certifying an AM facility according to DNV's globally recognized 'Facility Certification' standard is a testimony that the qualified facility meets rigorous criteria, validated by qualified AM experts. AM processes qualification provides peace of mind to end-user customers, placing a strong emphasis on the reliability and capability verification of AM manufacturers. This certification adds significant value for customers, regulators, and anyone seeking certified AM components. NAMI acknowledges the significance of DNV's facility certification and part-family qualification for their strategic growth objectives. With DNV's certification, NAMI aims to enhance confidence in their customers regarding the quality and repeatability of their AM processes. As it has been stating by NAMI's Acting CEO, Omar Abuhabaya, "It was a fantastic start to the NAMI facility qualification process with DNV. This remarkable opportunity will allow NAMI to serve the Oil & Gas industry and provide end-users with the confidence to incorporate additively manufactured parts into critical applications, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction." Abuhabaya further highlighted his involvement in the establishment of DNV's Joint Industry Project (JIP) Phase I and Phase II qualification guidelines, finding it rewarding to witness their implementation in NAMI's facility today. These guidelines enable NAMI to qualify both critical and non-critical applications (AMC Level 1, 2, 3), thereby accelerating the adaptation of additive manufacturing in the region where NAMI is taking a leading. It is worth noting that NAMI's joint venture partner, 3D Systems, has been instrumental in bringing the innovation of 3D printing to the manufacturing industry. As the leading additive manufacturing solutions partner, they bring innovation, performance, and reliability to this project. Additionally, 3D Systems is actively collaborating with DNV in their Joint Industry Project Phase 3, further enhancing their expertise and contributions to the success of NAMI. Dr. Sastry Kandukuri, Global AM Practice Lead and Senior Principal Materials Specialist at DNV’s Energy Systems Business Unit in Norway, highlighted NAMI's commitment to excellence by partnering with DNV for their AM facility qualification. DNV's globally recognized 'AM Facility Certification' compliant with the DNV-ST-B203 standard and DNV-SE-0568 service specification, assures that NAMI's facility exceeds rigorous criteria, supported by qualified AM experts. This certification adds significant value for end-user customers, part design owners, and those seeking certified AM components in the energy/oil & gas industries. The partnership underscores the importance of DNV’s facility certification and part family qualification and aligns with NAMI's strategic growth vision in the Energy and Oil & Gas sectors, leveraging AM technology's potential. With DNV's certification, NAMI gains the trust of its end-user customers, ensuring quality and consistency in their AM processes, seamlessly integrating into the manufacturing supply chain.