Inventory management in shipping industry: the solution of 3D printing
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Keywords
3d printing ; Additive manufacturing ; Spare part management ; Implementation of new technologies ; QuestionnaireAbstract
In the present work, the theoretical and practical advantages of the production method using 3D Printing are presented. The research is conducted in the form of questionnaires, which have been obtained through a case study approach. 25 experts in the field of construction, resale and purchase of spare parts for merchant ships, have participated in the research. Valuable conclusions are drawn about the prism through which stakeholders see this particular, evolving mode of production. In addition, it is understood that the degree of agreement and market readiness to accept this construction method, which as it turns out, will (if implemented) to transform the supply chain of the entire merchant shipping. As it can be seen from the participants' conclusions, the immediate assistance that the industry could receive from 3D Printing, concerns specific portions of the spare parts. Due to their special characteristics, these spare parts can easily, quickly and economically be created on an expanded scale, through this new way of production.