According to a case study by Chinese 3D printer manufacturer BLT, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) was able to significantly improve the manufacturing of oil well logging sensors by using 3D printing.
In particular, the irregularly shaped rock density sensors were difficult and time-consuming to manufacture using conventional methods. With selective laser melting from BLT, manufacturing time was reduced by 60%, and costs dropped by 20%.
According to CNPC, 3D printing also increases production capacity by 60-70%. The surface hardness of the sensors increased by 5-6%. This was made possible by two 3D printers from BLT, which can print large and complex components.
In addition to increasing efficiency, BLT also helped with employee training and component development. According to CNPC, the project was a great success overall. It shows how 3D printing can improve manufacturing in the oil and gas industry. New designs become possible, processes become more flexible, and value creation takes place more locally.
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