Towards digitalized circularity: 3D printed smart mold for lightweight kayak production

Important results from the project

The project has validated 3D printing technology as a tool in a digital business model. The project result, demonstrating 3D printing, can effectively promote the manufacturing industry´s transition to a digitized and circular business model. The project also demonstrates new value in the reuse of bio-based fibers from the waste stream, while phasing out plastics. The project result has largely attracted attention within the 3D printing industry and has also attracted interest from industrial media both in Sweden and the USA.

Expected long term effects

Melker of Sweden AB has developed a new kayak model for the American market. RISE has 3d-printed that model with recycled material from Biofiber Tech AB. The model has also been tested and validated by Melker´s representatives in the USA. Biofiber Techs´s improvements to the new material formulation have shown promising results for commercial production. A part of the new kayak model has been printed at RISE as a proof-of-concept, and has been used to evaluate vacumeforming strategies for different mold constructions.

Approach and implementation

Project partners worked well together and generated good results. The project shows new value in the reuse of bio-based fibers from the waste stream. The project result has largely attracted attention within the 3D printing industry and has also attracted interest from industrial media both in Sweden and the USA. Therefore, the project´s social and industrial impact is in line with the goal of achieving UN sustainability goals 12.5 and 12.8 by increasing awareness of sustainable development and promoting lifestyles that harmonize with nature.