What is WAAM Additive Manufacturing?

What is WAAM?

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is a manufacturing process used to produce or repair metal parts by 3D printing. It belongs to the direct energy deposition (DED) family of additive manufacturing processes. WAAM is realised by layering layers of metal on top of each other until a desired 3D shape is created. It is a combination of two manufacturing processes: gas metal arc welding (GMAW/MIG) and additive manufacturing. GMAW (MIG) is a welding process used to join metal parts using an electric arc, and additive manufacturing is an industrial term for 3D printing.

Metalworm WAAM cell

Part production using WAAM is performed by a welding robot integrated with a power source. A welding torch connected to the robot is used to melt wire feed stock to create 3D parts.

Some of the industry-specific applications and the advantages that stand out;

Defence: WAAM can be used to produce specialised mounting brackets for military vehicles, UAVs or weapon systems. By leveraging WAAM technology for the production of such components, defence organisations can strike a balance between functionality, weight reduction and customisation, thereby improving overall mission effectiveness and operational efficiency.

Aerospace : WAAM can revolutionise aerospace by enabling the manufacture of lightweight, specialised components, optimising the purchase-to-fly ratio while improving fuel efficiency and operational effectiveness.

Maritime: WAAM offers transformative opportunities for the maritime industry by facilitating the production of Propellers, Crane Hooks and Panama Chocks etc. These innovations facilitate production processes and improve the performance and efficiency of ships and marine vessels.

Oil and Gas : In the Oil & Gas industry, WAAM offers transformative solutions, including the manufacture of corrosion resistant tubular components, innovative heat exchanger designs and specialised flanges for connectors. This technology improves operational efficiency, addresses specific challenges such as deepwater wellhead reinforcement and enables on-site production in remote locations, demonstrating its potential for customised, high-performance components in critical applications.

Railway: WAAM technology in the railway industry can reshape component manufacturing by providing customised, high-performance solutions. WAAM's capabilities range from efficiently repairing worn railway components to providing robust coating solutions to increase the durability and longevity of critical railway infrastructure.

Propeller produced by WAAM method

During the WAAM process, a dense smoke is generated in the cell. This smoke must be evacuated as quickly as possible.

This smoke is very dangerous for human health and the environment. It is removed and filtered from the cell in the fastest way with our systems specially produced by HIVENT.

HiVent WAAM cell filtering system