While additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, offers transformative potential for the marine and offshore industries, broad adoption will require trust and buy-in from key stakeholders.

In this episode of Setting Course, an ABS Podcast, Conrad Kao, Director of Additive Manufacturing for Howco Group, and Michael Kei, Vice President of Technology for ABS, joined host Brad Cox to discuss the role of data analysis and machine learning in building trust in and validating components produced with AM.

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Key Points

• Machine learning can help optimize additive manufacturing processes.
• Trust in equipment is critical for marine applications.
• Data-driven certification can reduce lead times and costs.
• Human oversight is essential for safety and compliance.
• Standards are crucial for the adoption of new technologies.
• The future of manufacturing is increasingly digital.
• Collaboration is needed to develop universal standards.

Guests

Conrad Kao, PE, is a seasoned engineering leader and Director of Additive Manufacturing at Howco Group, where he drives strategic integration of advanced metal additive technologies to solve complex supply chain and production challenges, particularly in the oil and gas, aerospace, and high-performance industrial sectors. With a strong foundation in mechanical engineering and a Professional Engineering (PE) license, Conrad brings a unique blend of technical expertise, business insight, and practical leadership to the rapidly evolving world of additive manufacturing (AM). He is passionate about advancing additive solutions that improve part performance, reduce lead times, and enable new levels of customization and efficiency in critical applications. At Howco, Conrad oversees the company’s additive operations, championing the adoption of cutting-edge AM processes such as laser powder bed fusion and hybrid manufacturing. Under his leadership, Howco Additive has expanded its capabilities to serve demanding markets with complex geometries and high-value metal components — driving innovation from concept through qualification and production.

Michael Kei is Vice President of Technology for ABS. In his role, Michael is responsible for leading and approving technical development and maintenance of products & services to meet organizational and business needs. He has 20 years of experience in the marine and offshore industry where he has driven innovation and led high-performing teams. Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s in offshore engineering and has a proven track record of implementing cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational efficiency.