As experts in additive manufacturing (AM) with a core focus on WAAM and LW-DED technologies, we are thrilled to exhibit at America’s Event for Industrial AM Innovation, Formnext Austin 2023.
Formnext forum Austin is breaking ground as the first event in a series dedicated to driving innovation and growth in industrial 3D printing across the Americas. Located in one of the world’s most technologically advanced manufacturing hubs, Formnext forum Austin will bring together leaders from all sectors of the additive manufacturing (AM) supply chain.
At Formnext Austin 2023, we will be showcasing some game-changing technologies, namely the use of WAAM and LW-DED methods to print small to medium to large scale metal components.
WAAM offers several advantages, including its ability to produce large-scale metal parts at high deposition rates and cost-effectively. In this process, a wide range of metallic alloys, making it suitable for various industrial sectors. This groundbreaking technology is trustfully used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, and more. It is particularly beneficial for producing components with complex geometries, as well as for repairing and refurbishing existing parts.
Laser wire direct energy deposition (LW-DED) is a metal additive manufacturing technique that utilizes lasers for precise deposition of material to create or repair 3D metal components. LW-DED offers relatively fast deposition rates Compared To Powder-based technologies. It´s suitable for printing small to large-scale metal parts or perform repairs, reducing production time and costs. Some typical applications include manufacturing complex components with intricate geometries, repairing turbine blades or other high-value parts, repairing worn-out surfaces, or simply creating custom prototypes.
But at FasTech, we not only specialize in additive manufacturing, as part of our one-stop-shop services, we also offer machining services for components that require a high degree of precision and repeatability. Our CNC machining specialists can program and safely oversee the production of highly complicated precision components with the highest standards of quality.
Moreover, we are proud to be the US reseller for the Scantech range of portable 3D scanners. These state-of-the-art scanners are ideal for rapidly creating exact 3D models for product development, reverse engineering, first article inspection (FAI), quality control and repair and maintenance.
Join us from August 28th to 30th and discover the limitless possibilities of additive manufacturing at Booth 338. Our team of additive manufacturing professionals will be on hand to answer all your inquiries.
Do not forget to click on the link below to obtain your trade visitor badge and do not forget to use our Guest Pass Code: FFA1170 to get a discount.
For more information about FasTech, visit our website at www.fastech-engineering.com.
The FasTech Team.
Additive manufacturing (AM) processes are no longer in their infancy. They are quickly emerging into serious options to produce metallic parts. Input alloy requirements and processing energy requirements are considerably lower in AM than in conventional processes, like forging. Thus, AM becomes an attractive option to manufacture forging preforms. Such preforms will allow one-step forging to finished shape/size instead of two or three steps. Further, the use of AM in making forging preforms combines the flexibility and efficiency of near-net-shape manufacturing with the strength and durability properties of wrought manufacturing processes.
Dr. Tushar Borkar from Cleveland State University (CSU) received a grant from Forging Industry Education and Research Foundation (FIERF) to investigate the use of AM processes to reduce the cycle time in forging operations. Dr. Borkar and Fastech Engineering (FasTech) are exploring wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology to manufacture forging preforms.
FasTech’s WAAM system can print small to large scale components in steel, titanium, nickel, aluminum alloys with typical deposition rates of 5 kg/h in both 3-and 5-axis configuration using state-of-the-art feedback controls. CSU will study the effect of processing parameters on microstructure and mechanical behavior of 316 stainless steel parts fabricated via different processes, including WAAM, followed by forging. The controlled deformation of the forging process enhances mechanical performance of the printed parts by adding directional properties for strength, ductility, and resistance to impact and fatigue that wouldn’t be possible with AM alone. These results will also be compared with other post-processing methods like vacuum hot press and spark plasma sintering.
FasTech and CSU plan to apply this technology and expand their partnership to manufacture other alloys for the forging industry to minimize cycle time.
The aerospace industry has been utilizing Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology for years to produce critical parts for aircraft engines and structures. One of the most notable examples of AM in aerospace is the production of turbine blades, which require complex geometries and cannot be created by traditional manufacturing processes. By utilizing AM, manufacturers can produce more intricate designs that provide better performance and are often lighter in weight.
AM technologies like Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and Laser Directed Energy Deposition (L-DED) are used to fabricate complex aerospace components by depositing welding wire or metal powder using an electric arc or a laser to melt and bond the material together, creating an intricate 3D-printed structure.
FasTech applies both these technologies to print components in various alloys, like Titanium, Inconel, Steel, Aluminum and many more. Below are a few examples.
(a) Impeller in Inconel 625
(b) Automobile component in Stainless steel
Figure 1: Metal components printed at FasTech
WAAM technology is widely utilized for creating large parts for aerospace applications. It is a more economical option when compared to the traditional methods used by the aerospace industry. This technique is particularly useful in the production of engine components, large fuselage sections, and landing gear sections. The WAAM process comprises using metal wires as the raw material that is melted and deposited in layers, creating the required geometry and shapes.
The benefits of AM are numerous, including cost and time savings, increased design flexibility, and improved part performance. For instance, Airbus has been using AM technologies in their A350 XWB aircraft, where AM has helped to reduce airframe weight by up to 30% compared to traditional manufacturing techniques, resulting in significant fuel savings.
Another advantage of additive manufacturing is its ability to produce parts with excellent mechanical properties, high durability, and heat resistance, providing a more extended life to the manufactured aerospace components. Also, the reduction in the weight of parts during Additive Manufacturing (AM) is crucial in reducing the weight of aircraft, leading to significant savings in operational costs and increased fuel efficiency.
This is why, as an expert one-stop-shop specialized in Additive Manufacturing (AM) using WAAM and L-DED as core technologies in our manufacturing process, it’s a pleasure for us at FasTech to be exhibiting at the world’s largest and most important aerospace event, The Paris Air Show 2023 next June 19th-25th.
This 54th edition is set to bring together over 2000 exhibitors and 100,000 trade visitors in the industry. It presents a unique opportunity to meet with key players, showcase ingenious innovations to the world, create technological and industrial partnerships, and explore promising commercial prospects.
If you’re planning to attend the show, visit our Booth D162 in Hall 3 at the Virginia Economical Development Stand. Our additive manufacturing pros are available to answer your inquiries.
For more information about FasTech, visit our website at www.fastech-engineering.com.
Don’t forget to click on the link below to get your trade visitor badge: Get Badge
The FasTech Team.
The economy in Danville, VA is about to get a boost in the form of a new manufacturing center. The Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) represents a $28.8 million investment in the Danville area and will be home to the Navy’s new Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (CoE). This is great news for the city and its residents!
Governor Glenn Youngkin was in Danville to celebrate the ribbon cutting.
“When we are thinking about the future of our own national security, we have to have these capabilities to make sure that these supply chains are here in the US and that we can protect and advance them and all of that comes together around this particular initiative,” said Youngkin about the new manufacturing facility.
What Is Additive Manufacturing?
Additive manufacturing is a process of making three-dimensional objects from a digital file. It involves building up an object by depositing material one layer at a time. This is in contrast to traditional subtractive manufacturing methods, such as final machining of castings or forgings, where material is removed from a workpiece to create the desired shape.
The Navy’s New Center of Excellence
The Navy’s new additive manufacturing CoE will be located within Danville’s CMA on the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research campus. The purpose of the CoE is to help the Navy keep pace with rapidly changing technologies.
Additive Manufacturing has many benefits, but there are a few that are particularly well-suited for the needs of the Navy. First, AM can be used to create complex parts and shapes that would be difficult or impossible to make using traditional methods. This gives the Navy more flexibility when it comes to designing and procurement of parts for their fleet. Finally, because AM produces less waste material, it is more environmentally friendly than traditional manufacturing methods.
We are excited to leverage our new Center for Manufacturing Advancement and work with the Navy and other partners,” said Telly Tucker, President, IALR. “ATDM is one of the strongest examples of what full integration of industry in the training process looks like, by bringing key partners together to be vested in the time-to-talent process and ensuring the unique requirements of shipbuilders and suppliers are achieved quickly to meet the demands of our nation’s defences.”
The announcement of the Navy’s new additive manufacturing center is great news for Danville and its residents. This type of investment will help create jobs and grow the local economy. In addition, it will also help raise awareness about additive manufacturing and its potential applications. We are excited to see what this new initiative will achieve!
FasTech LLC changing the Manufacturing Game
If you’re in the business of manufacturing parts, then you know that to succeed you need both quality and speed. The faster you can get your product to market without complications, the better. That’s where FasTech comes in. The leading company based in Danville, VA. specializes in rapid machining and additive 3D metal printing of BIG components, which means they can produce customers parts up to ten times faster than traditional additive manufacturing methods. Plus, their state-of-the-art equipment and skilled team of engineers mean that clients are getting the best possible product at the best possible price. FasTech LLC is all about changing the manufacturing game and they are excited to be part of this amazing project in collaboration with Austal USA and the Navy.
“Danville was chosen as the site for their facility due to its proximity to major universities like Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia, which both boast strong research and development programs. In addition, Danville is within a two-hour drive of nearly 80% of the U.S. population, making it an ideal location for distribution”, said Alan Pearce, Chief Executive Office at FasTech LLC.
The Navy is always looking for ways to stay ahead of the curve, and its Additive Manufacturing AM CoE reflects just that.
“FasTech LLC is proud to be a part of such a significant project and grateful to be supported by such great leadership from both Austal USA and the Navy. We are 100% committed to supporting our Navy and meet their strategic goals by driving AM forward. We are excited to see what the future holds for additive manufacturing and our team is working hard on developing new technologies and manufacturing processes that will push the boundaries of what’s possible within the industry. With our expertise, we are confident that we will be a key contributor to make the AM CoE a success,” said Richie Barker, Chief Operating Officer at FasTech LLC, while pointing at the 3D Printed Prototype they have developed together.
Fastech is delighted to be exhibiting at this year’s International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS 2022) – the 33rd edition of this prestigious event, which will be held in Chicago on 12th-17th September 2022.
This year’s show is expected to attract nearly 130,00 visitors, involved in all aspects of manufacturing including C-suite executives, engineers, floor managers and machine operators. There will also be 2,400 exhibitors, from around the world, showcasing the latest equipment, products and software. Running alongside the show will be the IMTS 2022 Conference. Conference attendees will be able to update their knowledge, with a world class roster of speakers presenting on a range of cutting-edge themes including process innovations, alternative processes including additive and 3D printing, plant operations, quality and metrology and systems integration.
‘We are thrilled to be exhibiting at IMTS 2022,” says Alan Pearce CEO of FasTech LLC. “At FasTech, we offer a complete range of services including 3D metal printing, 5 & 3 Axis post machining and reverse engineering. Of particular interest to IMTS 2022 visitors, might be our 3D metal printing capability using our GEFERTEC 3DMP®arc605 equipment. With these machines, we can manufacture extremely large parts to very tight deadlines, often up to ten times faster than conventional additive manufacturing methods. For many industries such as the aerospace, power generation, defense and medical sectors, our ability to deliver big parts, fast is an important factor.”
If you plan to visit IMTS 2022, please drop by Booth 433118, to meet the FasTech team – we would love to see you.
In the meantime, to find out more about our range of services, please do get in touch with us at FasTech. We would be very pleased to hear from you.
FasTech LLC is delighted to now be a member of the Additive Manufacturing Consortium (AMC). Founded in 2010, by EWI, the consortium brings together more than 50 members worldwide with the goal of accelerating the manufacturing readiness of metal additive manufacturing technology.
AMC members are drawn from global industry, including aerospace and heavy equipment manufacturers, research and development organisations, government agencies and academia and provides an important forum for collaboration, pre-competitive research projects, partnerships on government funding opportunities and high-quality networking within the industry.
A large proportion of AMC’s income is invested in research initiatives with current 2022 projects including the continued assessment of additive manufacturing technologies, low angle printing without supports and the optimization of process parameters for thin wall structures.
“We are extremely proud to be a member of the Additive Manufacturing Consortium,” explains Alan Pearce, CEO of FasTech. “As a US-based middle market metal additive manufacturing company, our sector experience should provide some useful insights to other members at the quarterly meetings and help shape the technical research projects undertaken going forward. With this in mind, we are particularly pleased to be joining the Summer Meeting in Buffalo on the 3rd and 4th August and having the opportunity to present on “3D Metal Printing Applications When using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) Technology”. Our presentation will highlight some of FasTech’s recent experiences plus provide a number of practical case studies on reverse engineering, 3D metal printing and post machining operations when using WAAM as the foundational printing technology.”
Find out more:
Additive Manufacturing Consortium operated by EWI
The advantages of Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) Technology
Problems that critical industries can solve with WAAM
If you would like to find out more about Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), please do get in touch with the FasTech team. We would be very pleased to hear from you.
FasTech has announced that it is now a US distributor for the Scantech range of 3D scanners. These state-of-the-art scanners can rapidly create precise 3D models, ideal for use in the aerospace, automotive, defense, energy and transport sectors.
Scantech 3D scanners can be used for a variety of applications including product development, reverse engineering, first article inspection (FAI), quality control and repair and maintenance. The handheld portable scanners can measure and scan large or awkward shapes in narrow difficult to reach spaces or under large objects, automatically transforming the 3D scan data into accurate 3D models. The range offers accuracy levels of 0.100 mm up to 0.025 mm, with scanning speeds of 1,350,000 measurements per second to 2,020,000 measurements per second with resolution levels of 0.10 mm achieved.
FasTech will be distributing four of the Scantech product ranges in the US:-
Composite 3D scanners – KSCAN-Magic series
The KSCAN-Magic series, the first 3D scanner to combine infrared and blue lasers into a single instrument, has unparalleled scanning speed, accuracy, detail, scanning area and depth of field. The KSCAN offers Metrology-grade NDT Measuring. It has a scanning accuracy of 0.020 mm and 0.03 mm/m of volume accuracy which provides the ultra-high precision non-destructive testing (NDT) levels required by sectors such as the aerospace industry.
Hand-sized 3D scanners – SIMSCAN 3D Scanner
Weighing in at just 570 g, the handheld SIMSCAN 3D scanner is ideal for scanning in awkward and difficult to reach places. With its metrology-grade measurement system, the SIMSCAN 3D scanner can be used in narrow, awkward spaces or under large objects, to provide high quality 3D scans. The scanner is extremely robust, produced in aerospace-grade materials to ensure its extreme durability.
Tracking 3D scanners – TrackScan-P Series 3D System
Ultra-high precision dynamic 3D measurement, without requiring markers, the TrackScan-P has accuracy levels of up to 0.025 mm with a resolution of 0.020mm and can be used in quality control, product development and reverse engineering. With its powerful anti-interference capability which overrides thermal, vibration and environmental variations, the scanner can easily capture 3D data from shiny or black surfaces.
Color 3D scanners – iReal 2E 3D scanner
The iReal 2E color 3D scanner is specially designed for medium to large- sized objects and human body 3D scanning. The scanner uses infrared VCSEL structured light technology for a safe, comfortable 3D scanning experience.
“We are delighted to become distributors for ScanTech 3D scanners,” said Alan Pearce, CEO of FasTech LLC. “We have already been using the scanners for some time in our own manufacturing operations, which puts us in a great position to see their applications across a broad range of industrial sectors.”
If you would like to find out more about Scantech 3D scanners, please get in touch with the FasTech team. We would be delighted to discuss which of the range is best for your requirements.
For further information
Find out more about the Scantech range of 3D scanners for fast, accurate 3D models
Find out more about the KSCAN-Magic series
Find out more about SIMSCAN 3D Scanners
Find out more about the TrackScan-P Series
Find out more about the iReal 2E 3D scanner
Virginia based FasTech LLC will be joining other US companies in the USA Partnership Pavilion at this year’s prestigious Farnborough International Airshow, the global stage for the aerospace and defense industries, which takes place from 18th to the 22nd July.
The UK Show returns after a three-year hiatus, with 1500 exhibitors from 96 countries and 80,000 trade visitors expected during the five days. In 2018, the event generated an estimated US$192 billion of business deals and the 2022 show is expected to be even more successful.
This year there will be a number of dedicated zones focusing on the following key themes: space and the opportunities for its commercialization, defense and the security challenges currently facing countries, sustainability and innovation in the sector, future flight and the race to explore future technologies and the finally there will be zone focusing on the workforce and how the significant technological changes over the next decade will impact teams around the world.
“We are delighted to be part of the USA Partnership Pavilion at this must-attend exhibition for businesses in the aeropace and defense sectors,” explains Alan Pearce, CEO of FasTech LLC. “The event brings together key decision makes from around the globe and showcases the latest technology and innovation in the industry. As a cutting-edge metal additive manufacturer, FasTech can work closely with large equipment providers in the aerospace and defense sector to make parts for them that simply could not be produced using traditional manufacturing methods.”
If you are going to the Farnborough International Airshow, please do come and chat with the FasTech team. You can find us on Booth Number 2125 in Hall 2.
For further information
Farnborough International Airshow 2022
FasTech LLP, specialists in 3D metal printing, will be representing middle market manufacturers at today’s Northeast Private Equity Conference, at a panel session on the recently announced Additive Manufacturing (AM) Forward Initiative.
The 2022 SBIA Northeast Private Equity Conference is taking place on Tuesday, June 28 and Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at the Lotte New York Palace. The meeting is designed to provide an insight into current U.S. economic trends, valuable updates on potential policy changes which could impact funds and high-level networking opportunities with middle market contacts. This year, there will also be a bonus panel session considering the newly announced AM Forward Programme.
The AM Forward initiative, launched in May by President Biden in Hamilton Ohio, is a programme aimed at strengthening links between large US equipment manufacturers with America’s small and medium sized businesses to help speed up the adoption of additive manufacturing, key to ensuring supply chain security, speed and reducing costs.
“When we met President Biden at the AM Forward launch,” explains Alan Pearce, CEO of FasTech, “the importance of additive manufacturing to US manufacturing was stressed. Some complex parts, used in many key industrial sectors, just could not be produced using conventional methods. As a middle market manufacturer, the AM Forward Initiative is really important to us at FasTech – the programme will be invaluable by providing a more stable order book from large American equipment manufacturers, which in turns means that we can invest in our workforce to provide high quality well-paid jobs for the future.”
Today’s panel at the 2022 SBIA Northeast Private Equity Conference, includes representatives from large companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, O’Neal Industries, with the discussion focusing on highlighting investment opportunities for middle market companies and larger companies identifying where there are potential demand opportunities.
For further information
2022 SBIA Northeast Private Equity Conference
Fastech was proud to be invited to join President Biden in Hamilton, Ohio along with our key customer, Siemens Energy, for the launch of the AM Forward initiative. The programme is a partnership of several large US equipment manufacturers with America’s small and medium-sized organisations and designed to help speed up of the adoption of additive manufacturing. The AM Forward Initiative should also improve the competitiveness of small-and-medium-sized manufacturers, to create, and sustain high-paying manufacturing jobs, and to improve supply chain resilience through greater adoption of additive manufacturing across the United States.
During President Biden’s visit the importance additive manufacturing, often known as 3D metal printing, was highlighted: some vital, complex parts used in many sectors, simply could not be produced using conventional methods. Additive manufacturing facilities in the US also have the advantages of ensuring supply chain security, speed and reduced costs.
“We discussed with the President the importance of the availability highly trained additive manufacturing specialists in today’s current tight labor market – and which is one of our critical challenges at FasTech,” explained Alan Pearce, CEO of FasTech. “We work closely with Institute of Advanced Learning and Research in Danville as well as the local community college, the Danville Community College, which is outstanding in training machining and additive technology specialists. In particular, their third year Integrated Machining Technology Programme is used as our benchmark qualification: a standard all our engineers must achieve to ensure a good mix of skills – part manufacturing technician, part engineer.”
The AM Forward initiative is important to businesses such as FasTech in providing a more stable order book from large US equipment manufacturers, training the future workforce with the required skills and providing high quality, well paid jobs for the next generation.
