Developing A Business Model For Sustainable Additive Manufacturing In Oil & Gas Industry

Abstract

The oil and gas industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices due to its significant environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D-printing, presents a transformative solution by enabling precise material usage and reducing carbon emissions through localized production. This thesis aims to develop a sustainable and economically viable business model for the subject company to integrate AM into the oil and gas industry's value chain. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative data analysis and qualitative insights from expert opinions gathered through the Delphi method. The research explores the benefits of AM adoption, evaluates its potential to enhance operational efficiency, and identifies implementation challenges within the Norwegian oil and gas sector. The findings demonstrate that AM has great potential to enhance sustainability efforts, streamline supply chains, and reduce operational costs. By proposing strategic recommendations and showcasing case studies, this thesis provides an initial framework for the industry's transition to more sustainable manufacturing practices through the adoption of innovative business models.