Building Practical 3D Printing Capabilities for Water Utility Applications

1. Components for production during the pilot project, based on experience and proven track records in manufacturing similar components where available. For spare part production, the following components are of interest to PUB:
   1. Customised fittings for sewerage pipelines
   2. Impellers for submersible pumps
   3. Pump wear rings
2. Material selection for identified components, ensuring compatibility with the intended water and wastewater industry applications. Alternative materials may be proposed but must meet or exceed the original materials' performance specifications.
3. Details of hardware and software to be employed in production.
4. For proposals involving the exploration of novel applications in the water utilities sector, provide a comparison between 3D printing and conventional approaches. Include details on production, testing, commissioning, and functional verifications that are unique to the proposed application.

1. The proposed system should have the capability to accommodate scanning or printing of parts up to 1000mm x 1000mm x 1000mm in dimension. If this is not possible, do indicate the limitations in size.
2. Scanner precision shall achieve ±0.1mm accuracy for industrial components and demonstrate capability in capturing complex geometries, including impellers.
3. The proposed system shall be optimised to balance quality parameters (such as printing infill) with production speed to meet operational requirements of the printed parts while minimising the lead time.
4. The proposed system must adhere to Singapore workplace safety regulations for indoor operation and incorporate appropriate ventilation systems for handling resins, solvents, and chemical post-processing materials.

1. Dimensional Accuracy
   1. The dimensions of the printed parts should be comparable to the dimensions of the original design
   2. The dimensions across multiple prints of the same model are consistent
2. Surface Quality - The surface of the printed objects is consistent with the original item, with minimal signs of layer lines, roughness, unevenness and defects
3. Structural Integrity
   1. The layers of the print are well bonded together, with no signs of delamination or weakness
   2. The strength and durability of the print should achieve the required performance, or be similar to the original part
   3. The printed parts should not have any warping or deformation, particularly in areas with large flat surfaces or overhangs
4. Durability - The printed part shall remain in good condition, and suitable for use to the proposed useful life given
5. Production Efficiency
   1. Demonstrated ease of printing from provided samples
   2. The production time of the printed parts will be compared with the lead time of procuring the original part

By the end of the pilot, the project should achieve one of the two key objectives: establish an end-to-end process for on-demand production of spare parts or demonstrate other innovative 3D printing applications in water utility operations.

For on-demand spare parts production, the solution must demonstrate:

1. Accurate reproduction of components from physical samples or 3D models, meeting our standards for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and structural integrity.
2. Efficient conversion of physical parts to printable 3D files, including scanning, digital model creation, and print file preparation.
3. Reliable system operation with minimal operator intervention, delivering completed parts within 48-72 hours of request.
4. Proven structural integrity and functionality through controlled environment testing over a minimum period of 6 months.
5. Successful testing and validation according to applicable standards and certification.
6. Implementation of a secure digital parts repository system for managing 3D models, material specifications, and validated printing parameters.

For other proposed 3D printing applications, partners should outline specific outcomes regarding production, testing, commissioning, and functional verification methods.

The pilot project is to be completed within a period of 18 months.

The suggested project scope and timeline are outlined below, noting that specific timelines and activities may vary depending on the technology type and maturity. You may propose alternative timelines and activities.

Milestone 1: Process Design and Facility Setup (1-3 months)

1. Handover spare part samples for reproduction
2. Finalisation of process design and material selection criteria
3. Procurement, shipment, and setup of 3D printing facilities in Singapore
4. Development of quality control requirements and testing procedures

Milestone 2: Process Optimisation and Laboratory Testing (3 - 6 months)

1. Validate end-to-end workflow
2. Optimisation of printing parameters and post-processing methodologies
3. Evaluation of print quality through 3D scanning and mechanical testing

Milestone 3: Field Trials (6 - 9 months)

1. Installation of 3D printed parts into equipment/site under controlled conditions
2. Performance monitoring and documentation over a minimum 6-month period

Milestone 4: Documentation, Reporting and Training (1 month)

1. Compilation of process documentation
2. Development of performance reports for 3D-printed parts
3. Training of PUB officers in 3D printing fundamentals and practical applications

Upon successful completion of the pilot, PUB will consider implementing the solution either through a service model or direct system acquisition. Solution providers not based in Singapore must either establish local operations or partner with a Singapore-based contractor to deliver the service.