Korean Register Certifies First 3D-Printed Metal Repair Process for Defense and Shipbuilding

Korean Register has awarded its first manufacturing procedure certificate for additive manufacturing repair technology, opening the door for 3D-printed restoration of damaged metal structures in South Korean shipbuilding and defense programs.

The certification covers AM Solutions' laser wire directed energy deposition process, which rebuilds only the affected sections of a metal component instead of replacing the entire part. The company demonstrated the technology at its additive manufacturing center in Daejeon, where KR engineers verified that the repaired sections meet classification society standards for safety and reliability.

Kim Sang-soo, head of KR's Naval Ship Business Division, called the certification a significant expansion for additive manufacturing. "This certification carries significant meaning in that it has expanded the application scope of additive manufacturing technology to the repair of existing metal structures," Kim said. "We expect it to present a new solution for the maintenance systems of high-value equipment and structures in operation in the defense and shipbuilding sectors."

Selective repair with LW-DED reduces maintenance time and cost compared to traditional methods. It also extends the service life of parts that are discontinued or difficult to source. For naval vessels and offshore platforms, that means fewer supply chain delays and less downtime waiting for replacement components.

The certification follows revised KR guidelines issued this year to align with International Association of Classification Societies standards for additive manufacturing in shipping and offshore applications. KR's system now covers materials, manufacturing processes, products, and production methods.

South Korea has been investing heavily in metal additive manufacturing for aerospace and defense. Companies such as INNOSPACE have already commercialized support-free titanium 3D printing in the country. The KR certification gives AM Solutions a regulatory foundation to sell repair services to shipyards, navies, and offshore operators who need proven, class-approved methods for restoring worn or damaged metal parts.