case study S series

CES UVigo: Lighter and More Efficient Boats Thanks to 3D Printing

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Sara Wickstrom

13 1 月, 2025

Originally published on sicnova3d.com

The CES UVigo Association, made up of 25 engineering students from the University of Vigo, shared a common goal: to build a solar-powered trimaran for competition that runs exclusively on clean energy. Thanks to the UltiMaker S5 3D printer, they achieved their objective of creating a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

The Challenge

Building a solar trimaran with components that can withstand demanding environments.

CES UVigo was founded in 2020 with the aim of competing in international regattas. This goal led to the need to construct a vessel for participation: the Boeiro I. With sponsorship from Sicnova, they adopted additive manufacturing as a key tool for creating the components required to build their solar trimaran.

Before starting construction of the trimaran, the team created a model of the boat with all control and propulsion systems manufactured using 3D printing. For them, 3D printing is the most viable technique for producing parts with rapid adaptability that can endure highly demanding environments, such as the sea. Additive manufacturing also enabled them to work remotely, allowing them to coordinate schedules and bring the project to fruition.

Additive manufacturing is the most viable technique for building lightweight, fuel-efficient boats, as it offers numerous advantages to the marine sector.

-Marcos Pardeiro, President of the CES UVigo Association

The Solution - UltiMaker S5 3D Printer

With the integration of the UltiMaker S5 3D printer, the team began designing fully printed systems. Since then, they have developed a wide range of 3D printing applications, from tooling to a custom propeller for their boat. To produce the tooling for the solar battery and the boat's steering wheel, they used PETG filaments, known for their low electrical conductivity. For the safety covers at the edges of the solar panels, they used HIPS material, which is resistant to ultraviolet light and water. Another key benefit of 3D printing was the significant reduction in production time for these components compared to traditional manual manufacturing methods.

The Result

A lighter trimaran with reduced fuel consumption, built with 3D-printed components.

With the help of 3D printing, CES UVigo successfully designed and built their solar-powered competition trimaran. The vessel is much lighter and consumes less fuel. Their commitment to creating a more sustainable mode of transportation was made possible thanks to additive manufacturing. This technology has allowed them to minimize production times, work with shorter deadlines, and adapt to changes more efficiently.

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