Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) in Marine Applications

This chapter explores wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM), an innovative technology that merges welding and additive manufacturing principles for large-scale metallic component fabrication. It traces the evolution of WAAM in the marine sector, highlighting its advantages over conventional methods in terms of material savings, production speed, and design flexibility. The process fundamentals, including layer-by-layer deposition, wire feeding, and heat management, are explained alongside comparisons with powder-based additive manufacturing systems. The chapter discusses process parameters, material considerations, and defect control, emphasizing their impact on dimensional accuracy and mechanical integrity. Industrial applications are illustrated through case studies involving propeller blades, hull components, and offshore equipment. The potential of WAAM to revolutionize shipyard operations through on-demand part fabrication, repair, and reduced material waste is also examined. By integrating automation, robotics, and intelligent control, WAAM represents a cornerstone of digital manufacturing in marine engineering. This chapter positions WAAM as both a technological innovation and a sustainable alternative for next-generation shipbuilding and offshore component production.