New DNV recommended practice aims to revolutionize digital parts management in the energy sector

DNV has announced a new recommended practice, DNV-RP-B205 Digital inventories and on-demand manufacturing, set to transform parts management in the energy sector. This framework helps the sector assess the maturity of a digital part, from initial design or data capture to qualification and production. The process includes 3D scanning, capturing design data, generating engineering documentation, and preparing order-ready parts through on-demand manufacturing. 

By leveraging digital inventories and near-net-shape on-demand manufacturing technologies, DNV aims to cut costs and improve efficiency. Additive manufacturing (AM) is a key part of this strategy, as it produces components close to their final specifications. This approach helps tackle issues like overstocking and obsolescence.

In the dynamic landscape of industrial operations, maintaining secure access to necessary parts is a significant challenge. Traditional inventory systems often result in overstocking or stockouts, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs. Digital inventories —virtual repositories that enable on-demand production using AM and other near-net-shape (NNS) technologies, offer a transformative solution. 

Key advantages include:

  • Reduced storage costs: Digital inventories minimize the need for physical storage space.
  • On-demand production: Parts can be manufactured as needed, reducing lead times and the risk of obsolescence.
  • Customization: AM and NNS technologies enable the production of parts tailored to specific requirements, enhancing performance and reliability.
  • Supply chain resilience: Multiple sourcing options and production routes enhance supply chain security, mitigating potential disruptions.
Fahmi Al-Shawwa, the Founder and CEO of Immensa
Fahmi Al-Shawwa, the Founder and CEO of Immensa

The readiness levels defined in DNV-RP-B205 allow companies to scale up digital inventories quickly and cost-effectively. By prioritizing the development of critical digital parts, companies can efficiently allocate resources and respond swiftly to market demands. 

Indeed Fahmi Al-Shawwa, the Founder and CEO of Immensa, a leading digital inventory and advanced manufacturing company stated that “At Immensa, we follow a qualified process using advanced 3D scanning equipment and proprietary solutions to accurately capture a part’s geometry, along with other critical data such as material grade. By integrating these details, we create a comprehensive digital part package, enabling seamless production through near-net-shape manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing (AM).”

Prajeev Rasiah, DNV
Prajeev Rasiah, Executive Vice President & Regional Director, Energy Systems, Northern Europe at DNV

Prajeev Rasiah Executive Vice President & Regional Director, Energy Systems, Northern Europe at DNV explained that “The integration of digital inventories with on-demand production using additive manufacturing and near-net-shape technologies is a game-changer for the energy industry. This innovative approach offers a sustainable and agile solution to spare parts management, enabling companies to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance asset reliability. With DNV’s recommended practice, DNV-RP-B205, the path to digital part readiness is clearer, paving the way for broader adoption.”

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