Alloy Wire International (AWI), a UK-based company known for developing wire, bars and wire rope in High Performance Exotic Alloys, now ambitions to serve the additive manufacturing industry with a nickel alloy wire range. The company which has been AS9100-accredited since 2013, has developed an Exotic nickel alloy wire that could enable 3D printed parts’ producers to achieve cost effective rapid production.
The new material is designed for Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), a wire-based Directed Energy Deposition (DED) technology that can deliver quicker lead times than conventional forging or casting without the need for complex tooling, moulds or dies. This process results in reduced waste and post-machining compared to conventional methods. So far, large-scale parts achieved with this process have already been seen in industries such as aerospace, architecture, energy and maritime – These are also the type of industries that can leverage the new AWI’s material.
Angus Hogarth, R&D Director at AWI, stated “It’s all about finding that manufacturing difference and Additive Manufacturing is a discipline the aerospace manufacturers are increasingly investing in. We were confident we could play a role in 3D Printing and, after months of R&D and technical reviews, we see our business as being a strong supplier of Exotic nickel alloy wire to the growing Additive Manufacturing sector.”
AWI’s wire and straight bars are fabricated in the West Midlands. They are made into springs, fire detection wire, fasteners and electrical instruments which can withstand high temperatures and/or in corrosive gases or liquids.
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