Interestingly , Mr Van der Velden indicates that it is not just the manufacturers who are interested in WAAM systems . “ We have received plenty of interest in our technology and software from the big oil and gas companies . For them , lead times are everything . Hence in some circumstances , they want to be more independent from their traditional OEMs .” As Mr Van der Velden explains , end user companies who purchase engineered equipment have the right to source spare parts elsewhere if , in the event of an emergency , the OEM is unable to supply the necessary components within a reasonable timeframe . Alternatively , the end user could manufacture those parts themselves , using WAAM to produce parts on demand . “ Having an own WAAM system gives companies a more independent position . This is going to shuffle the way the supply chains work .” π www . valve-world . net Valve World March 2025
external machining to create the required surface finish but that step is no different to the conventional manufacturing required for cast items .” Further , Mr Van der Velden notes a positive response when discussing the economic benefits of using WAAM . “ A common approach when making emergency items using specialty materials like duplex stainless steel is to machine down bar stock . However , during the necessary milling process , up to 80 % of what is a very expensive material will be turned into scrap ! At a cost of EUR 30 per kilo , you are literally throwing money away . WAAM is a much more economical option thanks to the near net shape results . Moreover , WAAM also scores from the sustainability perspective thanks to reductions in energy consumption and emissions .” However , Mr Van der Velden also understands the need to change a prevailing mind-set . “ An interesting take-away from our visit to Valve World was the realisation that the valve industry is completely adapted to accepting such long lead times ; this has been their normality for so long that it no longer seems unusual to wait six months for a valve . It ’ s a very disruptive idea that you can order a valve and receive it in a couple of weeks . We therefore plan to continue discussions at all levels , helping valve users to understand that WAAM is a viable , proven technology enabling the fast-track delivery of valves .”
Material availability
As the WAAM process consumes standard welding wire , WAAM users are free from material availability concerns that affect the casting industry , explains Mr Van der Velden . “ Our raw material is welding wire – a commodity that is readily available in practically all material grades worldwide . Whether you are located in Asia , Europe or the US , your local welding shop will be able to provide you with the material . For example , even if we need 10,000 kg of stainless steel welding wire , we can obtain it tomorrow from any number of respected sources . Nor is consistency an issue as welding is such a standardised industry . So , if a customer wants us to use a specific wire that conforms to certain standards , that is not going to be an issue .”
Target audience
In theory , WAAM could be of interest to a huge number of industries . Asked about high potentials , Mr Van der Velden replies as follows : “ We see significant interest from companies providing speciality items that are not made in large quantities ; these are a target . Hence , we have had promising discussions with quite a few companies active in the emerging hydrogen sector who want to scale up valve production in specific materials that are most suited to very low and cryogenic temperatures .” The drive to reduce stock levels is also favourable for WAAM , continues Mr Van der Velden . “ Nowadays many companies only stock standard items and certainly
Technology
This 750 kg , WAAM valve body was printed in only 180 hours . Its material properties are similar to that of a forged component
not expensive speciality equipment such as impellors which can cost upwards of EUR 100,000 . Order one now and it will take weeks to arrive via conventional production , yet with one of our systems installed in a 3x3 metre corner of your facility you can print that self-same impellor on demand .” Interest in WAAM from general industries making commodity products is naturally lower due to the higher stock levels and simplicity of production . “ Nevertheless , wherever buyers have lead time issues , you can rest assured that WAAM is a good solution ,” comments Mr Van der Velden .
WAAM can bring benefits such as on-demand production to a range of industries , taking into account specific use cases , requirement and applications
Shifting production
Interestingly , Mr Van der Velden indicates that it is not just the manufacturers who are interested in WAAM systems . “ We have received plenty of interest in our technology and software from the big oil and gas companies . For them , lead times are everything . Hence in some circumstances , they want to be more independent from their traditional OEMs .” As Mr Van der Velden explains , end user companies who purchase engineered equipment have the right to source spare parts elsewhere if , in the event of an emergency , the OEM is unable to supply the necessary components within a reasonable timeframe . Alternatively , the end user could manufacture those parts themselves , using WAAM to produce parts on demand . “ Having an own WAAM system gives companies a more independent position . This is going to shuffle the way the supply chains work .” π www . valve-world . net Valve World March 2025
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