Multi-criteria comparative analysis of the use of subtractive and additive technologies in the manufacturing of offshore machinery components

The dynamic development of additive manufacturing technologies, especially over the last few years, has increased the range of possible industrial applications of 3D printed elements. This is a consequence of the distinct advantages of additive techniques, which include the possibility of improving the mechanical strength of products and shortening lead times. Offshore industry is one of these promising areas for the application of additive manufacturing. This paper presents a decision support method for the manufacturing of offshore equipment components, and compares a standard subtractive method with an additive manufacturing approach. An analytic hierarchy process was applied to select the most effective and efficient production method, considering CNC milling and direct metal laser sintering. A final set of decision criteria that take into account the specifics of the offshore industry sector are provided.