Lincoln Electric Helps Chevron Accelerate Maintenance Using 3D Printing

Lincoln Electric used its proprietary, large-scale, metal 3D printing solution to deliver just-in-time parts to Chevron USA, Inc. to help bring a refinery back online according to schedule.

During a recent routine maintenance shutdown, extended lead times and supply chain delays on traditionally manufactured parts challenged Chevron’s planned restart schedule. Chevron’s Additive Engineering team worked with Lincoln Electric to get back on schedule using additive manufacturing to print critical replacement parts that would meet production and quality standards.

“Our planned maintenance schedule was in jeopardy due to current supply chain issues,” said Robert Rettew, Materials Technology Engineer.

“We realized this supply crunch could impact operations and our bottom line. We worked with Lincoln Electric to explore how parts could be created faster so we could resume operations as planned.”

The two teams worked together, along with industry experts from Stress Engineering Services, Inc., to print eight nickel alloy replacement parts that averaged approximately 3 feet (0.9 meters) in length and over 500 pounds (226 kilograms) each in a total of just 30 days.

“We are pleased to work with Chevron and showcase the value of just-in-time production using additive manufacturing, and its ability to prevent facility downtime,” said Christopher L. Mapes, Lincoln Electric’s Chairman and CEO.

“Metal 3D printing for large-sized metal parts, molds, tooling, and prototypes is a game-changing solution for various end markets, including industrial manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. When speed-to-market, design flexibility and reduced costs take priority; our printing technology provides the ultimate answer.”

As the largest known wire metal 3D printing factory in the world, Lincoln Electric’s additive manufacturing solution for high-mix, low-volume applications is capable of printing metal-based parts up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) in length and weighing in excess of 5,000 pounds (2,265 kilograms). This innovative technology significantly reduces manufacturing lead times, shortens supply chains, and enables design enhancements that exceed traditional fabrication capabilities.

Based in Cleveland, Ohio, Lincoln Electric’s proprietary and patented metal 3D printing solution uses its own SculptPrint software, robotic cells, and welding wire to control quality and ensure a reliable supply chain.