Rapid Additive Manufacture

Additive manufacturing processes are used to improve efficiency in creating near-net shaped components.

They can be used for both repair and new build, and the range of processes available allows both large and small precision structures to be made in this way.

In essence, the process creates components by adding material rather than the more conventional technique of removing it.

Benefits:

• Reduced cost
• Reduced waste
• Reduced lead times
• Rapid manufacture
• Design change flexibility

Expertise:

• Direct laser deposition
• Friction processing - linear, stir, surfacing build-up
• Arc processing
• Metallic and polymeric structures

Track record:

• Development of a direct metal laser deposition repair for Rolls-Royce's Trent 500 seal segments
• TWI has worked with a major aerospace manufacturing company to develop linear friction welding for sequential build up of near net-shape preforms in titanium alloy
• Concepts for applying rapid manufacture using additive processes have been proposed by TWI for various applications including valve structures in the oil and gas sector, aircraft structures for new build and repair, and other applications where high materials costs require alternative manufacturing methods to be used.

For more information, please contact: twi@twi.co.uk.