DML awarded DNV Approval in Principle for AM process

Feb 23, 2025

DEEP Manufacturing Limited (DML), a large-scale parts manufacturer, has secured DNV Approval in Principle (AiP) for its use of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) in the production of steel for pressure vessels for human occupancy. Launched in January 2025, after extensive research and development, DEEP Manufacturing has harnessed technology to drive speed, scale, and quality to improve commercial resilience and support growth in the supply chain.

The UK-headquartered company has developed manufacturing techniques that bolster supply chain resilience. With 20 WAAM systems at its Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence in Avonmouth, UK, DML operates one of the largest concentrations of WAAM systems, globally.

Each individual robotic system can produce metallic parts up to 3m in diameter, while the six-arm synchronized configuration supports the production of parts with volumes up to 6.1m in diameter and 3.2m in height.

Initially developed as a solution to the underwater pressure vessel manufacturing requirements of DEEP, the ocean technology and exploration company, the business has the capability and capacity to offer its rapid production timelines and expertise in large-format metal AM to projects in the offshore, maritime, and energy industries.

The company is now in the final stages of the audit process to obtain DNV approval to produce pressure vessels for human occupancy.

“Achieving DNV Approval in Principle for our manufacturing processes demonstrates our commitment to high standards and uncompromising quality. Partnering with DEEP Manufacturing provides customers with the rapid delivery of long-term cost-effective subsea manufacturing solutions, driven by superior quality,” said Peter Richards, CEO of DEEP Manufacturing. “We are the only company in Europe with this AiP, and we are already in the process of working towards final DNV approval for the production of steel pressure vessels. Our combined subsea engineering resources, knowledge, and experience across DEEP means we can deliver manufacturing projects at an unprecedented scale, faster, and at lower life of project costs compared to traditional manufacturing processes. Using DEEP Manufacturing’s additive manufacturing process allows companies to stay ahead of the game in their subsea projects. Additive manufacturing is the fast, safe solution to manufacturing large-scale, complex metal parts.”

An AiP is an independent assessment of a concept within an agreed framework, confirming that the design is feasible and no significant obstacles exist to prevent the concept from being realized.