Marine transportation is the major mode of international freight transportation in Malta. About 90% of world trade is carried by merchant ships numbering over 50,000 worldwide, 8,000 of which are registered in Malta. Research is being carried out by the DMME in this area to analyse the use of additive manufactured components for marine applications. Their use is limited since such parts often suffer poor mechanical, tribological, corrosion and anti-fouling characteristics. This problem can be combated by applying subsequent surface engineering processes, such as shot peening combined with deposition of coatings.
The principal aim of the project SEAM (Surface Engineering for Additive Manufactured parts) is to determine the suitability of additive manufactured parts used in the marine transport industry. This aim will be achieved through the following specific objectives:
