ErectorCraft has officially launched as the first company in the United States to specialize in the commercial production of 3D printed boat hulls, the company announced. Using large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) technology, the company is enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the production of boat hulls and other marine components, providing a viable alternative to traditional methods.
“ErectorCraft is not just introducing a new way to build boats — we’re redefining the possibilities within marine manufacturing, bringing cutting-edge technology to the water with real-world impact,” said the company in a press release.
ErectorCraft’s Services
In addition to manufacturing 3D printed hulls, ErectorCraft delivers a broad range of services designed to support and advance marine industry operations. These services encompass the sale and implementation of ErectorBot LFAM systems that use high-density polyethylene (HDPE), customized engineering solutions, and production streamlining strategies. The company also applies 3D concrete printing (3DCP) technologies for marine infrastructure projects and offers hands-on training and technical assistance to help partners effectively transition to and utilize these fabrication methods.
ErectorCraft manufactures its boat hulls and structural components using marine-grade high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a material known for its exceptional impact resistance, UV stability, and full recyclability. This method eliminates the need for traditional molds and tooling, enabling faster production cycles with minimal waste.
Additionally, the company supplies ErectorBot EC machines directly to shipyards, marine manufacturers, and onboard vessels, allowing clients to produce large-scale structural components on-site. This decentralized approach reduces logistics costs and offers greater production flexibility, improving marine manufacturing efficiency.
Leonard Dodd, the company’s Chief Technology Officer, developed the ErectorBot platform, which the company describes as one of the first LFAM systems in the world. Dodd also participated in the development of Autodesk’s direct metal deposition (DMD) technology in 2015. This technology contributed to the creation of the world’s first class-approved 3D printed propeller, according to the company, further solidifying the potential of AM for critical marine components.
The Rise of 3D Printed Boats
In 2022, the University of Maine (UMaine) 3D printed two new large-scale boats, one of which was recognized as the largest vessel ever to be produced through additive manufacturing. The vessels were developed for the US Marine Corps as logistical support vessels, and will be tested for field use by the armed forces.
In fact, UMaine broke its own record for the world’s largest 3D printed boat, which until the unveiling of its new boats was its 3Dirigo model, measuring 25 feet long and printed in just 72 hours. Elsewhere, tech start-up Moi Composites displayed what it claimed was the world’s first boat 3D printed in continuous fiberglass thermoset material at the 2020 Genoa Boat show.
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Featured image shows a 3D printed boat made using LFAM. Photo via ErectorCraft.
