01 /
Lead times from months to days
02 /
Expensive tooling and setup costs
03 /
Limited to simple geometries
01 /
Reduce lead times from months to days
02 /
No tooling required
03 /
Complex geometries and integrated features
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common questions about wire arc additive manufacturing, suitable applications and system requirements.
Q1.
What is wire arc additive manufacturing?
Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) uses an electric arc to melt metal wire and build a component layer by layer. It produces a metal form close to the required shape, which can then be machined to achieve final dimensions and surface finishes.
Q2.
When is WAAM worth considering?
WAAM is worth assessing for larger metal components, prototypes and low-volume production where casting tooling, material waste or replacement lead times create significant costs. Suitability depends on the part’s geometry, alloy, performance requirements and finishing needs.
Q3.
Which metals can be used in WAAM?
WAAM can process a range of weldable alloys, including steels, aluminium and titanium. The usable material range depends on the welding equipment, wire and process settings. Speak with Hyperion about your required alloy and application to establish a suitable system configuration.
Q4.
Do WAAM parts need machining after printing?
Parts commonly require machining on mating surfaces, holes and other features with tight tolerances. Heat treatment and inspection may also be required. These steps should be considered alongside printing when assessing the production time and cost of a finished component.
Q5.
What determines a WAAM system’s build size?
Usable build size depends on robot reach, positioning equipment, the work area and access around the component. Part geometry and the deposition strategy also influence what can be produced within a particular cell.
Q6.
What should I provide to discuss a WAAM system?
Share representative drawings or CAD files, the required alloy, component dimensions, production volumes and performance requirements. Include available floor space and existing machining capabilities so the discussion can cover the full production workflow.