The maritime industry is on the cusp of a propeller revolution, and the Digitally Enabled Efficient Propeller (D.E.E.P) project is leading the charge. This isn’t just about tweaking existing designs—it’s about reimagining propellers as smart, self-monitoring systems, thanks to additive manufacturing (AM) and digital twin technology. The project, backed by Innovate UK, is setting out to prove that 3D-printed propellers aren’t just a lab experiment but a viable, scalable reality for the global fleet.
The D.E.E.P project is tackling the elephant in the room: Can additive manufacturing deliver propellers that are not only efficient but also meet the stringent demands of the maritime sector? The answer, according to the consortium, is a resounding yes. By comparing AM processes to traditional casting methods, the project aims to establish a clear path to regulatory approval—a critical step for any technology hoping to disrupt a highly regulated industry.
The consortium behind D.E.E.P is a powerhouse of expertise, bringing together Enki Marine, Stone Marine Propulsion, TWI, DEEP Manufacturing, Authentise, ASTM International, and Newcastle University. Each partner plays a crucial role, from hydrodynamic modelling to digital thread integration, ensuring that the project doesn’t just innovate but also delivers a framework for industrial adoption.
Peter Richards, CEO of DEEP Manufacturing, highlights the project’s ambition: “DEEP Manufacturing is delighted to collaborate with world-leading organisations in the maritime, technology, and standards sectors to further the development and deployment of advanced applications in Additive Manufacturing.” This isn’t just about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—it’s about translating cutting-edge tech into practical, real-world solutions.
Dr Milad Armin, Executive Director at ENKI, echoes this sentiment, emphasising the project’s focus on safety, purpose, and seamless integration. “ENKI’s core mission is to ensure that emerging technologies are not only cutting-edge, but also safe, purpose-driven, and seamlessly integrated into the maritime sector.” The D.E.E.P project is a testament to this mission, aiming to pioneer a new generation of propellers that are not just efficient but also smart and self-monitoring.
The project’s roadmap is clear: evaluate AM processes, validate the demonstrator on Newcastle University’s research vessel, and ultimately achieve type approval and scale production for commercial adoption. This phased approach ensures that the project doesn’t just deliver innovation but also builds a credible framework for industrial adoption and regulatory compliance.
The implications for the maritime sector are significant. If successful, D.E.E.P could pave the way for a new era of smart, self-monitoring propellers that optimise performance and reduce emissions. This isn’t just about keeping up with the competition—it’s about setting the pace for the future of maritime technology.