Selection method for WAAM

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is a technique that allows 3D printing by means of a welding torch on a robotic arm and specialized process settings. The technology has great potential and is therefore seen as a Key Enabeling Technology (KET).

The aim of the research is to improve acquisition processes for Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) applications. “WAAM is a technique for 3D metal printing with many possibilities, opportunities and applications. At the same time, we see that the technique is still relatively unknown and that a lot of knowledge transfer is needed to achieve a strong application. There is a lot of speed and effectiveness to be gained in these conversations as we approach them in a more structured way, ”said René Backx of MX3D, WAAM pioneers. The idea arose to develop a “selection method for WAAM” as a method for the acquisition process.

The LAC also shares this opinion and is looking for a more effective way to help companies achieve an application. “In conversations with potential customers, it is always a lot of exploring and communicating. If that can be done in a structured way, it would help enormously ”, says Ard Hofmeijer, Director of LAC.

The three parties have known each other for quite some time. “Within this consortium there is a lot of knowledge and experience in 3D metal printing and we have competencies that complement each other well,” said Ivo Vrooijink, project leader and researcher at Saxion. “At the Industrial Design Research Group, a selection method has already been developed for SLM or ‘powder bed printing’ of metal. This knowledge can be combined with the knowledge of MX3D and LAC about applications and the process of WAAM”. The method is tested for speed, effectiveness and quality of acquisition interviews for strong applications.