A Model Italian Sailboat Makes Waves with WindformXT and 3D Printing

A partnership between Yam Marine Technology and Daniele Cevola Design Studio was aimed at creating a modern model version of the fishing boats once built with mulberry and sea pine by master carpenters, but this time, with a modern update.

So they turned to CRP Technology, a 3D printing company headquartered in Modena, Italy.

CRP uses high precision CNC machining and 3D printing technology – particularly their Windform laser sintering materials, to create models of everything from high-tech motorcycles to this Livrea Yacht Italia creation, a model of a daysailer with a blend of modern and classic styles.

The result was a 1:14 scale model which was built in just a few days. They say it’s the first of its kind that uses 3D printing technology and their unique composite laser sintering material, Windform XT.

CRP has served as the technology partner for several case studies in aerospace, entertainment, motorsports, automotive, design, and UAV applications in additive manufacturing. The company uses an upgraded 3D Systems Vanguard printer with 100 W laser power, intelligent thermal monitoring, and the latest temperature sensors to build parts for fully functional and bench testing applications.

Windform, a reinforced polyamide, was used to make the Italian electric superbike, Energica, by CRP as well.

The Windform materials and other CRP technologies will take center stage at the Miami Boat Show February 13th-17th at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

“We could consider the new philosophy behind the project as Boat Building 2.0, since 3D printing and the latest generation materials offer designers the potential to unleash their imagination and experiment with nautical applications,” say the team at Livrea Yacht Italia, the designers of the Livrea 26.

The design and engineering for the Livrea 26 were done by Francesco Belvisi and Daniele Cevola.

The designers asked CRP Technology to build the 3D printed model with a goal in mind of melding traditional and contemporary elements together, and then combining futuristic materials and building techniques to build a boat with classic inspiration.

Livrea Yacht Italia said that, for the project to be a success, it would need to combine complex details and a strong aesthetic appeal with the critical mechanical properties and materials usually used in high-performance vehicles like those in motorsports and aerospace.

Would seeing a 3D printed model of a high-ticket purchase help you make up your mind to buy? Let us know in the Italian Sailboat Makes Waves with WindformXT and 3D Printing forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out the video below for process images of the yacht making.