Claimed to be the “most 3D printed vessel on the grid”, the ‘Godiva 2’ submarine features numerous 3D printed parts designed to withstand the pressures of racing. These include the fins and the feet in which they sit, the propeller shroud and blades, as well as a number of fixings, housings and internal steering components.
“Our extensive use of 3D printing remains one of our strengths,” said Josh Dobson, project leader of the Warwick Submarine team. “Using this technology, we were able to 3D print final parts for the submarine 90% faster than using conventional manufacturing and also saved £2000 to £3000 in manufacturing costs.”
Running for its fourth year, the academic project challenges final year Masters engineering students to build and race a human-powered submarine at the annual European International Submarine Races. Having won the award at last year’s championship for the high-use of 3D printing within the prototyping of the submarine, the team decided to go a step further this year. The team extend the use of 3D printing technology to include the manufacture of final production parts capable of performing in actual racing conditions. Using their Fortus 3D Printer, the students used Stratasys’ ABS-M30 material which is said to be suitable for end-use environments due to its strength, functionality and ability to perform under complex shapes.
“Having access to this technology gives us the flexibility to produce extremely complex and multi-functional parts cost-effectively and on-demand,” continued Dobson. “For example, our fixing feet are an incredibly complex piece of geometry and have been 3D printed to perfectly fit the hull at virtually no additional cost, yet remain as functional and strong as a traditionally manufactured part.”
He added: “By creating the part using 3D printing, we’ve reduced material wastage by about 75% compared to machining the part traditionally from a solid piece of metal, which bodes well for a future of more sustainable manufacturing.”
In addition to building a one-of-a-kind submarine, the students spend a significant amount of time engaging with other school pupils to encourage the uptake of STEM subjects, as well as working with industry partners internationally to learn more about the latest innovations in engineering.
