Fastech at ICAM 2026: Advancing Metal Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace, Defense, and Energy

This fall, Fastech is heading to Orlando for ICAM 2026, the ASTM International Conference on Advanced Manufacturing, running September 28 through October 2 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. It’s one of the most significant gatherings on the advanced manufacturing calendar, and a fitting place for our team to talk about where metal additive manufacturing is headed next.

ICAM brings together engineers, researchers, program managers, and standards bodies from across aerospace, defense, energy, and medical industries. What sets it apart from a typical trade show is its focus. Rather than simply showcasing new equipment, ICAM digs into the harder questions the industry is now facing: how additive processes get validated, how parts earn certification, and how a technology that started in prototyping labs becomes a trusted, repeatable production method. That shift, from capability to qualification, is exactly where Fastech has built its business.

Based in Danville, Virginia, Fastech specializes in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing and Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition, two wire based metal printing processes capable of building large, structurally demanding components in materials like titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, and other high performance alloys. What distinguishes our approach is that additive is only one part of the process. Every part we print moves directly into our own three to five axis CNC machining centers for finishing, and through a quality system that documents process conditions and metrics at every stage. Reverse engineering, CAD development, printing, machining, and inspection all happen under one roof, which means a customer gets a fully qualified, end use component rather than a print that still needs finishing somewhere else.

That end to end capability matters most in industries where a part failure carries real consequences. Aerospace, defense, marine, and energy customers do not have the luxury of treating additive manufacturing as an experiment. They need a documented, traceable, repeatable process, and that is the gap ICAM 2026 is built to address.

Additive manufacturing’s role in readiness and sustainment

One of the more overlooked benefits of metal additive manufacturing is what it offers to readiness and sustainment, particularly for aerospace, defense, and energy platforms expected to stay in service for decades. Many components on legacy aircraft, ships, and industrial systems were originally cast or forged by suppliers that no longer exist, using tooling that no longer exists either. Waiting on a new casting or forging run for a single obsolete part can take months, and in some cases the part can no longer be sourced through traditional means at all.

Wire based directed energy deposition changes that equation. Because it builds parts directly from a digital model and wire feedstock rather than requiring dedicated tooling, it allows manufacturers to reproduce or redesign legacy components on demand, without waiting on a supply chain that may no longer exist. That capability supports fleet readiness by shortening repair and replacement timelines, and it supports sustainment by keeping aging platforms operational longer without a full redesign or replacement program. For defense and energy customers managing critical equipment with long service lives, that combination of speed and flexibility is becoming less of a nice to have and more of an operational requirement.

 

 

Alan Pearce presents at ICAM 2026

As part of the conference program, Fastech’s Alan Pearce will deliver an invited presentation titled “From Qualification to Productionalization: Advancing Directed Energy Deposition for Certified Aerospace, Defense, and Energy Applications.” The session takes place September 30 from 8:50 AM to 12:00 PM ET, in the Directed Energy Deposition track.

The talk is aimed at process engineers, quality and qualification professionals, and program managers working through their own DED qualification pathways, as well as anyone trying to understand what production scale additive manufacturing actually looks like once it moves out of the lab. Alan will cover process parameter control and monitoring, material and metallurgical validation, hybrid additive to subtractive workflows, design for additive manufacturing planning, and the practical challenges that show up as programs scale toward certified production, drawn from current U.S. programs delivering end use components in titanium and high nickel alloys.

 

 

Stop by our kiosk

Alongside the session, our kiosk at ICAM 2026 will feature real, finished metal parts, produced with our Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing and Laser Wire DED processes and finished on our own CNC machines. No printers running on site, no work in progress, just the components themselves, so you can see the surface finish and detail our process actually delivers.

If you are attending ICAM 2026, we would like to meet you. Stop by Booth K15 to see the parts, sit in on Alan’s session, and start a conversation with our team about what additive manufacturing could do for your next program.

Fastech has been featured in the July 2026 issue of Aerospace Manufacturing magazine, one of the leading publications covering the design, production, and supply chain side of the civil aviation and defence industries.

The feature explores how Fastech brings additive manufacturing, subtractive machining, and inspection together under one roof, and what that hybrid approach means for programmes in defence, aerospace, and energy. It covers our work with Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition (LW-DED), the material efficiency gains these processes deliver on high value alloys such as titanium and Inconel, and how that translates into lower lead times and reduced cost for our customers, including our established relationship with Siemens Energy.

As part of the feature, Fastech sits down for a Q&A looking at where additive manufacturing stands today across defence, aerospace, and energy. The conversation covers the buy-to-fly ratio and why it matters when working with expensive aerospace alloys, how mature the WAAM and DED supply chain really is, and a real-world case where switching to additive manufacturing delivered a cost saving of approximately 51% compared to conventional machining. It’s a look at where the technology is already delivering production-ready results, and where the industry is still working through qualification and certification.

The article also touches on Fastech’s growth plans, including new facilities planned for the UK and Australia as demand grows across naval, defence, and AUKUS related programmes.

Read the Full Article

Fastech will also be exhibiting at Farnborough International Airshow 2026, Booth #2125, USA Partnership Pavilion on Virginia Economic Development Partnership stand (VEDP). Come by and see our capability in person.

The Fastech Team.

At Farnborough International Airshow 2026, Fastech is showcasing something the aerospace industry has been waiting for: additive manufacturing that has moved past the research lab and into genuine industrial production. Directed Energy Deposition (DED) and Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) are reshaping the way large, high value components get made, and Fastech’s approach shows exactly how far that shift has come.

From R&D Curiosity to Industrial Solution

The biggest shift in the market is that DED and WAAM are no longer viewed as purely experimental. Aerospace OEMs are now focused on material qualification, repeatability, process validation, reduced lead times, sustainability and material efficiency. Cost still matters, but customers are increasingly asking about supply chain resilience, waste reduction, and the ability to repair or extend the life of high value components rather than replace them outright.

Industry bodies such as MTC and ASTM are playing a central role too, helping define the standards around machine qualification, materials and process control that will accelerate wider adoption. The real challenge for the industry is identifying where Laser Wire DED and WAAM offer a clear advantage over traditional manufacturing methods, rather than trying to force the technology everywhere.

What Aerospace Customers Actually Want

Today’s aerospace customers are not looking for experimental technology. They want validated material performance, repeatable process control, clear certification pathways, shorter lead times, lower material waste and more flexible supply chains. There is also growing interest in lifecycle extension and repair, particularly for titanium and nickel alloy components where traditional subtractive machining can be both expensive and wasteful.

DED and WAAM are particularly well suited to large format titanium and Inconel structures: structural aerospace components, repair applications, near net shape preforms, tooling and fixtures, and high value replacement parts. The ‘buy to fly’ ratio is a major factor in this equation. Traditional machining can remove 70 to 90% of the starting billet as waste, whereas additive manufacturing deposits material only where it is needed, significantly improving utilisation and reducing overall production cost.

Under One Roof: Design Through to Qualification

What sets Fastech apart is the ability to take a component from initial design all the way through to qualification, under one single roof. The company has spent several years building deep expertise in both WAAM and Laser Wire technologies, giving it a genuine understanding of the real world challenges and opportunities these processes present, not just the theory.

This end to end approach integrates three pillars of advanced manufacturing: metal additive manufacturing, subtractive machining and inspection. By combining these with robotic platforms and CNC machining, Fastech delivers a hybrid manufacturing capability that is scalable and flexible enough to cover both repair and production applications across the full component lifecycle.

Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) sits at the heart of this process. Fastech’s experience has allowed the company to optimise toolpaths, support strategies and hybrid workflows so that post machining requirements are significantly reduced. The goal is never simply to print a part, but to create a near net shape component that minimises subtractive operations while still hitting the required tolerances and surface finish.

The Numbers Behind the Savings

A recent stainless steel component study offers a concrete example of what this means commercially. Conventional machining began with a 187lb billet and removed approximately 147lbs of material as waste, almost 80% material loss. Using additive manufacturing, the same part was produced from a near net shape printed blank weighing only 60lbs, reducing waste to around 28%. The results were significantly lower machining time, reduced tooling wear, lower energy consumption, reduced lead times, and an overall cost saving of approximately 51% compared to conventional manufacturing.

The Technology Behind the Capability

astech’s WAAM and Laser Wire DED capability is built on some of the most capable systems on the market. The company recently installed an AML3D WAAM robotic cell in the US, capable of producing components up to approximately 1.3m x 1.3m x 1.4m, with component weights exceeding 2,700kg and deposition rates above 2.5kg/hr.

Alongside this, Fastech operates Laser Wire DED robotic systems engineered and powered by Meltio, with build volumes around 1m x 1m x 0.75m and deposition rates exceeding 0.5kg/hr. These systems are scalable and continue to evolve rapidly in both size and productivity, giving Fastech the flexibility to match the right process to the right component.

Fastech works with leading additive manufacturing technology partners including Meltio, Gefertec and AML3D, helping industrialise wire based additive manufacturing for defence, aerospace and energy, three of the sectors driving demand hardest right now.

Built on Eight Years of Real World Experience

Headquartered in Danville, Virginia, Fastech is continuing its global expansion strategy, with planned facilities in both the UK and Australia driven largely by growing demand within naval, defence and AUKUS related programmes. The UK operation, planned for the North West of England, will initially focus on Laser DED robotic systems and Meltio based wire laser technology, followed by larger scale WAAM capability as the business scales. These technologies are already industrialised within Fastech’s US operation under AS9100 accredited processes, meaning projects can be validated and delivered end to end in the US before capability transfers into the UK.

Over the last eight years, Fastech has moved beyond pure research and development into real industrialisation, delivering end to end additive and hybrid manufacturing solutions for production applications. That experience, combined with DfAM expertise, additive manufacturing, CNC machining, inspection and repair capability, allows the company to evaluate whether a component is commercially viable for Laser Wire DED or WAAM before production even begins.

Fastech’s customer relationships reflect that credibility. The company counts Siemens Energy, a pioneer in metal additive manufacturing, among its customers, manufacturing real, end use components from printing through to machining and inspection, all under one roof. It is this production level track record, not just the technology itself, that Fastech is bringing to Farnborough this year.

For more information, visit fastech-engineering.com.

Bringing Proven Additive Manufacturing Capability into the UK

From 2–4 June 2026, the NEC Birmingham will host TCT 3Sixty 2026, a key meeting point for manufacturers evaluating how additive technologies fit into real production environments. The event has evolved alongside the industry itself. What began as a showcase for emerging technologies is now firmly focused on implementation, qualification, and industrial deployment.

Additive manufacturing is no longer positioned as a prototyping tool. Across aerospace, energy, defence, and nuclear sectors, it is being used as a validated manufacturing method. Materials are qualified, processes are controlled, and components are entering service in critical applications. The shift is measurable. Reduced lead times, improved material efficiency, and the ability to produce complex geometries are now driving adoption at scale.

This is the context in which Fastech is entering the UK market. Backed by established operations in the United States, the company is bringing production-ready additive manufacturing capability into a market that is actively seeking practical, deployable solutions.

From Established US Capability to UK Deployment

FASTECH operates a fully established Directed Energy Deposition (DED) and Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) facility in Danville, Virginia. This site is integrated with full subtractive machining capability, allowing the company to deliver hybrid manufacturing workflows from deposition through to machining, inspection, qualification, and final component delivery.

In the United States, FASTECH supports sectors where manufacturing standards are stringent and performance is critical. Power generation, naval, aerospace, and defence programmes all form part of the company’s operational scope. Work ranges from development and qualification builds through to production volumes, aligned with the inspection and accreditation requirements expected in these industries.

This experience is now being translated into a UK context. A new facility is currently being established and is planned to come online this year. The site will introduce Directed Energy Deposition capability based on blue-laser technology through a Meltio Robot Cell, with WAAM systems planned to follow.

The UK operation is focused on production. The objective is to support applications such as near-net manufacture of structural and high-value components, repair and life extension of critical parts, hybrid additive and subtractive workflows, and reduced lead-time manufacturing for complex metal components.

While the UK facility is being developed, FASTECH is already supporting UK programmes through its US operation. This ensures that projects requiring immediate delivery or qualification support can move forward without delay.

Latest Arcemy system from AML3D at our Danville HQ

Full-Service Manufacturing from Design to Qualification

A central part of Fastech’s approach is its fully integrated manufacturing capability.

Projects begin at the design stage, where components are evaluated and optimised for additive manufacturing. This ensures that the benefits of WAAM or laser-based DED are fully realised in terms of geometry, material use, and performance.

Deposition is then carried out using either WAAM or Laser Wire DED, depending on the specific application. Once printed, components are machined in-house to achieve final tolerances. Inspection and validation are also conducted internally, ensuring that each component meets the required standards for its intended use.

This end-to-end control delivers practical advantages. Lead times are reduced by removing multiple handoffs between suppliers. Quality is managed consistently across all stages of production. Communication between design, deposition, machining, and inspection teams is direct, allowing for faster decision-making and problem resolution.

Fastech’s expertise in WAAM and Laser Wire DED enables the production of large-scale components as well as high-integrity parts in demanding materials. The result is a manufacturing workflow that aligns with the expectations of industries where compliance, traceability, and reliability are essential.

The Meltio Robot Cell Blue Laser advancing Fatech’s metal AM capabilities

WAAM in Practice: Presentation at TCT 3Sixty

A key session at TCT 3Sixty 2026 will demonstrate how these capabilities are applied in real engineering scenarios.

Alan Pearce will present:
“Nickel Alloy Large-Scale Resonator Ring WAAM Printed for Siemens Energy”

This presentation will take place at the Additive Insights Stage (FF40) and will focus on the use of WAAM to produce a large-scale resonator ring in a nickel alloy for Siemens Energy.

The project highlights how wire-based additive manufacturing can be used to produce complex, high-value components in materials that are traditionally difficult to process. It also demonstrates how WAAM can reduce lead times and material waste while maintaining the integrity required for demanding applications.

For engineers and manufacturers working in energy, heavy industry, or advanced engineering sectors, this session provides a clear example of how additive manufacturing is being applied beyond the development phase and into production.

Attendance offers insight into both the technical and practical considerations involved in deploying WAAM for critical components.

Real use component – Nickel Alloy Large-Scale Resonator Ring WAAM manufactured for Siemens Energy

The Role of TCT 3Sixty in UK Manufacturing

TCT 3Sixty 2026 continues to play a key role in how additive manufacturing is adopted across the UK. The event provides a platform where manufacturers can evaluate technologies, understand their application, and engage directly with companies delivering real-world solutions.

As additive manufacturing becomes more widely adopted, the focus is shifting toward integration. How does the technology fit into existing workflows. How are components qualified. How are supply chains structured to support additive production.

These are the questions being addressed at the event, and they are central to the next phase of growth for the industry.

Fastech’s presence reflects this transition. The emphasis is on production capability, validated processes, and the ability to deliver components that meet the requirements of critical sectors.

Visit Stand GG36

Fastech will be exhibiting at stand GG36 throughout the event.

Visitors will be able to see real printed components, explore WAAM and Laser Wire DED applications, and discuss how additive manufacturing can be integrated into their own production environments.

The combination of US operational experience and new UK capability positions Fastech to support both immediate and long-term manufacturing needs.

Make time to attend the presentation at the Additive Insights Stage (FF40), then visit stand GG36 to continue the conversation.

TCT 3Sixty 2026 provides the setting. Fastech brings the capability.

April 14–16, 2026, the manufacturing industry gathers in Boston for RAPID + TCT, North America’s leading event for additive manufacturing and industrial 3D technologies. More than a trade show, Rapid + TCT is where production strategies are challenged, validated, and scaled. For manufacturers navigating supply chain pressure, material costs, and demand for faster delivery, the conversations happening here shape the future of production.

Additive manufacturing has moved beyond prototyping. The focus today is qualification, repeatability, and integration into real production workflows. Directed Energy Deposition continues to gain momentum because of its ability to manufacture large-format, high-integrity metallic components with improved material efficiency and reduced lead times. This is the environment where Fastech operates.

A Must-Attend Presentation: WAAM Printed Large-Scale Resonator Ring for Siemens Energy

A major highlight at Rapid + TCT 2026 will be the joint presentation by Alan Pearce, CEO at Fastech, and Tad Steinberg, Additive Manufacturing Business Development at Siemens Energy.

Their session, titled “WAAM Printed Large-Scale Resonator Ring for Siemens Energy,” focuses on a real production component manufactured by Fastech and currently used by Siemens Energy. This is not a prototype. It is an operational industrial component produced using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing.

The presentation explores how WAAM was successfully scaled to produce a large-format resonator ring while meeting strict industrial specifications. Attendees will gain insight into heat input control, deposition stability, toolpath optimization, distortion management in large geometries, and validation strategies ensuring metallurgical integrity and dimensional accuracy.

The outcomes were measurable. Reduced material waste compared to conventional subtractive manufacturing. Shorter production cycles. Improved dimensional control. Reduced machining and assembly through feature integration during deposition. This case study demonstrates how disciplined process development turns additive capability into industrial performance.

Stainless steel 316L Siemens Energy Resonator Ring – High and low wall versions

End-to-End Directed Energy Deposition Manufacturing

Fastech delivers complete Additive DED manufacturing services, supporting customers from feasibility and engineering consultation through parameter development, validation, inspection, and serial production.

Fastech is a component manufacturer producing real, functional parts for industrial customers. The focus is on production, not experimentation. Large-scale metallic components are manufactured in serial volumes with repeatability and quality assurance built into every stage of the process.

Two core technologies anchor this capability.

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing with Gefertec arc605

For large-format components, Fastech utilizes the Gefertec arc605 WAAM platform. WAAM enables high deposition rates and efficient material usage, making it ideal for large structural parts. Near-net-shape manufacturing reduces raw material consumption and significantly lowers machining time.

Fastech has built deep expertise in managing thermal cycles, stabilizing arc deposition, and mitigating distortion in large geometries. These competencies are essential when manufacturing complex components in materials such as titanium and Inconel alloys. The company also processes specialized materials including marine bronze, supporting corrosion-resistant and high-performance industrial applications.

Gefertec arc605 – Two machines currently operating on the shop floor

Laser Wire DED with Meltio Blue Laser Technology

For precision-driven applications, Fastech integrates Laser Wire DED systems powered by Meltio. The company has become the first Meltio Reference Site in the United States, showcasing the latest Blue Laser technology platforms including the Meltio Robot Cell Blue Laser and the Meltio M600.

The Blue Laser technology enhances energy absorption and stability, particularly when processing reflective and demanding materials. This allows for improved deposition control, higher efficiency, and expanded material compatibility.

Laser Wire DED provides fine feature capability, multi-material flexibility, and seamless robotic integration. It complements WAAM by addressing medium-scale and precision-intensive applications while maintaining industrial-grade repeatability.

Together, WAAM and Laser Wire DED provide a powerful, adaptable DED ecosystem. WAAM delivers scalability and deposition speed for large components. Laser Wire DED offers precision and flexibility. Combined within Fastech’s structured end-to-end manufacturing framework, these technologies support reliable serial production across complex material systems.

A Meltio Robot Cell Blue Laser and an M600 are currently operating on the shop floor

Manufacturing Advanced Materials for Real Applications

Material capability remains central to industrial additive success. Fastech processes demanding alloys including titanium, Inconel grades, and marine bronze. Each material requires careful control of thermal input, metallurgical behavior, and finishing strategy.

Through disciplined parameter development and rigorous validation procedures, Fastech ensures structural integrity and repeatable performance. The result is production-ready hardware built for real operational environments.

Full Additive Wire DED Capabilities – Laser Wire DED and WAAM

Join Us in Boston

Rapid + TCT 2026 offers a unique opportunity to see how additive manufacturing is transitioning from concept to scaled production. The presentation by Alan Pearce and Tad Steinberg will provide practical insight into delivering measurable industrial impact with WAAM.

If you are planning to attend, register using Fastech’s promotional code 16711996 to access event benefits.

Register here:
https://www.xpressreg.net/register/rapd0426/start.asp?sc=16711996

Production-scale additive manufacturing is here. It is validated. It is delivering results. Rapid + TCT 2026 is where that transformation is on display.

AMUG 2026 will be more than a speaking opportunity for Fastech this year. In addition to delivering two highly technical presentations, we will be exhibiting at booth #717, showcasing real-world components produced using WAAM and Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition. Attendees will be able to see firsthand what large-format, production-grade metal additive manufacturing looks like beyond prototypes and sample geometries.

The parts on that will be on display at our booth reflect the practical side of additive manufacturing, where process control, repeatability, and validation carry the same weight as innovation.

AMUG provides the right setting for that conversation. It is where manufacturers gather to evaluate what is working in production environments today, not what might work in theory tomorrow.

That is what makes AMUG important.

The industry has moved well beyond early-stage prototyping. Today the conversations are about qualification, throughput, repeatability, inspection, and integration into existing production systems. Companies want to know how additive fits into their supply chain. They want to understand certification pathways. They need solutions that can handle scale, cost pressures, and performance requirements.

AMUG is one of the few places where those conversations happen openly and in technical depth.

Jet Engine Exhaust SS316L printed on Meltio’s Blue Laser Wire DED

Built for Production, Not for Display

Fastech operates firmly in the production arena. The focus is on manufacturing real, end-use components that are installed and operating within customers’ systems, not on prototype parts or design trials. From Defense and aerospace to energy, oil and gas, and other critical industries, the work centers on structural metallic components built at scale and required to meet strict dimensional tolerances, mechanical performance criteria, and rigorous metallurgical standards.

The approach is practical and end-to-end. It starts with design for additive and material strategy. It moves through process development and parameter optimization. It extends into full-scale production builds, inspection, validation, and workflow integration. The goal is simple. Deliver additive manufacturing solutions that work reliably in production environments.

Technologies such as Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), engineered by Gefertec and AML3D, and Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition (LWDED), powered by Meltio, are applied with one priority in mind. Repeatable, scalable output that holds up under real operational demands.

At AMUG 2026, two technical sessions will reflect that philosophy.

WAAM in Action: A Large-Scale Industrial Component

“WAAM Printed Large-Scale Resonator Ring for Siemens Energy” will be presented by Alan Pearce and Tad Steinberg

This session walks through the development and production of a large resonator ring manufactured using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing. Large geometries introduce real complexity. Heat management becomes critical. Distortion must be anticipated and controlled. Deposition parameters cannot drift. Validation has to be thorough.

The presentation shares how those challenges were addressed in practice. It covers process scalability, dimensional control, feature integration during the build, and the quality assurance methods used to confirm performance. For organizations evaluating WAAM for heavy industry applications, this case study provides grounded insight into what it actually takes to move from concept to installed component.

Siemens Energy Resonator Ring – High and low walls.

Scaling Wire DED for Aerospace Qualification

The second presentation, “Scaling Wire DED for Large Flight-Qualified Titanium and Nickel Superalloy Components,” will be delivered by Yash Bandari 

Titanium and nickel-based superalloys are not forgiving materials. Aerospace qualification demands tight control over microstructure, mechanical properties, and traceability. When part size increases, the margin for error shrinks.

This session focuses on how Wire Directed Energy Deposition, including WAAM and Laser Wire DED, can be scaled to meet those requirements. It addresses thermal control strategies, repeatability frameworks, and how large-format DED systems can be integrated into established aerospace manufacturing lines. It also examines the practical benefits of reduced material waste and shorter lead times compared to traditional forging and heavy machining.

For aerospace manufacturers looking beyond prototypes, the session provides a realistic view of what production-scale DED requires.

Large Scale Aerospace Components – SS316L and Ti64

Why It Matters

Additive manufacturing is no longer judged by what it could do. It is judged by what it consistently delivers. Reliability, documentation, certification, and cost performance are now central to the discussion.

AMUG creates the environment where those topics are addressed by the people responsible for making them work. The exchange of real data, real constraints, and real solutions is what sets the event apart.

Visit Booth #717 and Continue the Conversation

If you are attending AMUG 2026, review the agenda and reserve time for both presentations. Then take the next step.

Stop by booth #717 to explore how large-format metal additive manufacturing can positively impact your manufacturing operations. Whether you are pursuing aerospace qualification, evaluating WAAM for heavy industry, or looking to strengthen supply chain resilience, direct conversations often unlock the clearest path forward.

Connect with Alan Pearce and Yash Bandari during the event to discuss your specific production challenges and opportunities. AMUG is where additive manufacturing moves from theory to implementation. Booth #717 is where that conversation can start.

Virginia continues to strengthen its position in global markets with the expansion of the Virginia Leaders in Export Trade program, known as VALET. Announced by Governor Abigail Spanberger, the latest class includes 12 new companies joining the two year international business acceleration program in 2026, among them FasTech LLC.

Administered by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), VALET is designed to help Virginia based companies that have established domestic operations expand their international sales. With 439 graduates to date and an average 78 percent increase in international sales among participants, the program has built a national reputation as a high impact export development initiative.

What the VALET Program Means for Virginia

International trade has long been a cornerstone of Virginia’s economic growth. The Commonwealth exports approximately $75 billion in goods and services annually, and global engagement remains critical as companies navigate shifting supply chains and evolving trade policies.

VALET provides participating companies with comprehensive support, including development of a customized international sales plan, access to experienced international service providers, introductions to potential global partners, educational programming, and tailored market research.

The program operates over two years, giving companies time to implement structured strategies, build relationships, and execute sustainable international growth plans. For regions like Southern Virginia, where advanced manufacturing continues to expand, programs like VALET serve as accelerators for job creation, capital investment, and industry diversification.

Additive Manufacturing Capabilities – WAAM and Infrared Laser Wire DED

The Role of VEDP

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to stimulate and support economic expansion throughout the state. VEDP focuses on business recruitment, business expansion, and international trade development.

Each year, VEDP International Trade supports approximately 500 Virginia companies in their global business development efforts. In the last year alone, companies attributed $2.3 billion in international sales to VEDP’s assistance, supporting more than 20,900 jobs across Virginia.

What This Means for Manufacturing

Manufacturing remains one of the most important economic drivers in the region, particularly in defense, aerospace, energy, and other critical sectors. As global demand for high performance components increases, the ability to export advanced manufacturing solutions becomes essential.

Programs like VALET enable manufacturers to scale beyond domestic markets, increase export revenues, create high skilled jobs, invest in advanced technologies, and strengthen supply chain resilience.

State-of-the-art subtractive capabilities as part of Fastech End-to-End manufacturing services

Fastech’s Commitment to End to End Manufacturing

As a participant in the 2026 VALET cohort, Fastech brings a unique advanced manufacturing capability to the program. Based in Danville, Virginia, Fastech delivers end to end manufacturing services, supporting customers from concept through finished production.

We are a real part manufacturer for real case applications. Our work supports defense and other critical sectors where performance, reliability, and precision are non negotiable.

Fastech specializes in additive manufacturing technologies, including Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing and Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition. These processes allow for the production of large scale metal components, near net shape structures, and complex geometries with reduced material waste and shorter lead times compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing methods.

By integrating additive manufacturing with conventional machining, inspection, and finishing capabilities, Fastech delivers fully qualified parts ready for deployment. This integrated approach strengthens supply chains and supports mission critical industries.

Latest Blue Laser Wire DED powered by Meltio

Expanding Export Sales and Creating Jobs

Participation in the VALET program represents an important step in expanding Fastech’s international footprint. Export growth drives revenue diversification, reduces dependency on single markets, and opens access to strategic partnerships worldwide.

As international sales grow, so does the opportunity to create new, high quality jobs in Southern Virginia. Skilled technicians, engineers, machinists, and additive manufacturing specialists are essential to scaling production and meeting global demand.

Building the Future of Advanced Manufacturing in Virginia

Virginia’s continued investment in trade acceleration underscores its commitment to advanced manufacturing leadership. By supporting companies ready to compete globally, the Commonwealth is cultivating innovation, resilience, and long term economic growth.

For Fastech, joining the 2026 VALET cohort aligns with our mission to deliver advanced manufacturing solutions that serve real world applications in defense and other critical industries. With the backing of VEDP and the structure of the VALET program, we are positioned to accelerate export growth, expand our impact, and contribute to Virginia’s reputation as a hub for cutting edge manufacturing.

From 3–5 February 2026, the Defense and maritime manufacturing community will gather at the Tampa Convention Center for MILAM 2026, a key event focused on operational readiness, sustainment, and advanced industrial capability. Fastech will be attending MILAM 2026 to engage with Defense, naval, and industrial stakeholders on how additive manufacturing is already playing a critical role in keeping assets operational, resilient, and available when it matters most.

MILAM has established itself as an important forum where Defense organizations, OEMs, and supply chain partners address real-world challenges such as aging platforms, long lead times, supply chain fragility, and the need for faster response to unforeseen requirements. In this environment, manufacturing speed, flexibility, and reliability are no longer competitive advantages alone; they are strategic necessities.

Why Additive Manufacturing Matters for Defense

Additive manufacturing enables a shift away from rigid, centralized production models toward more agile and responsive manufacturing strategies. For Defense and maritime sectors, this means faster production of mission-critical components, localized repair and remanufacturing, and the ability to adapt designs without costly tooling changes.

Technologies such as Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition (LW-DED) are particularly well suited for these demands. Both processes enable high deposition rates, excellent material utilization, and robust mechanical properties, making them ideal for structural, pressure-bearing, and high-performance metal components. Just as importantly, they allow manufacturers to respond quickly, reducing downtime and supporting readiness across fleets and platforms.

WAAM and Laser Wire DED: Choosing the Right Process

At Fastech, process selection is driven by application requirements. Depending on geometry, material, tolerances, and performance criteria, projects are executed using either WAAM or LW-DED to ensure all technical and operational requirements are met.

WAAM is particularly well suited for large, load-bearing maritime components where high deposition rates, material efficiency, and structural integrity are essential. The stainless steel SS 316L propeller shown here is a clear example of how WAAM enables the production of complex, full-scale ship components with robust mechanical performance and controlled geometry. Using WAAM, large propeller blades can be built efficiently with continuous material deposition, excellent fusion between layers, and the strength required for demanding marine environments. This approach supports faster manufacturing and repair of critical propulsion components while meeting corrosion resistance and durability requirements for naval and commercial vessels.

Stainless Steel SS316L Propeller – Printed on Gefertec arc 605

Laser Wire DED, on the other hand, excels where higher precision, finer features, or multi-material strategies are required. Using wire feedstock and controlled laser energy, LW-DED enables the production of complex geometries and thinner wall structures while maintaining excellent metallurgical quality. Fastech utilizes this process for applications such as lightweight tank ice cleats, flap actuators, and complex piping systems. For example, a marine bronze propeller shaft bracket measuring approximately 190 mm in length can be produced in just over four hours using LW-DED, demonstrating both speed and material efficiency.

Light wight Tank Ice Cleats – Printed on Meltio M600

Defense and Industrial Applications on Display

At MILAM 2026, Fastech will be showcasing real metal parts produced using both WAAM and LW-DED, highlighting practical applications across Defense, aerospace, and maritime sectors. These include:

• Ballistic and artillery shells, produced using stainless steel and marine bronze combinations to meet structural and performance requirements.
• Tank ice cleats, manufactured in stainless steel using Laser Wire DED to deliver robust, wear-resistant components.
• Jet engine exhaust components, built from SS-316LSi using robotic deposition systems, showcasing complex internal geometries and high-temperature capability.
• Shipbuilding and piping components, including dual-wall pipes and structural brackets designed for corrosion resistance and durability in harsh environments.

Each part on display reflects real production parameters, including layer heights ranging from 0.6 to 1.2 mm, controlled argon shielding, and print times that demonstrate the efficiency of wire-based additive manufacturing compared to conventional methods.

A Manufacturing Partner Ready for Action

Fastech is not a prototyping company. It is a real manufacturing shop floor delivering end-use, serial parts for Defense, Energy, Oil and Gas, and industrial sectors. The company operates as an end-to-end additive manufacturing and directed energy deposition service provider, supporting projects from concept design and process development through final machining, inspection, and delivery.

State-of-the-art facilities include the Gefertec arc605 for WAAM, the latest Meltio Blue Laser technology integrated into a robotic cell, and the Meltio M600 for Laser Wire applications. All subtractive machining and inspection capabilities are performed fully in house, ensuring quality control, traceability, and production-ready results.

This integrated approach allows Fastech to move quickly from design to delivered part, supporting customers who need fast, reliable manufacturing solutions for critical applications. Being “fast” in manufacturing is not just about speed; it is about responsiveness, adaptability, and the ability to deliver when timelines are compressed and requirements evolve.

Fastech’s Shop floor – Latest machines, Meltio Blue Laser Robot Cell and Meltio M600

Meet Fastech at MILAM 2026

MILAM 2026 provides an ideal setting to discuss how additive manufacturing can support Defense readiness and sustainment today. Visitors are invited to Booth 408 to see real WAAM and Laser Wire DED parts up close and engage with the Fastech team on current and upcoming projects.

Fastech is ready for action, ready for new programs, and ready to support manufacturing challenges where performance, speed, and reliability matter most.

In aerospace manufacturing, complexity is a given. Components must deliver reduced weight, high structural performance, and efficient geometries while meeting strict reliability standards. This propulsion adapter, designed by Meltio, illustrates how advanced metal additive manufacturing is expanding what can be achieved with challenging materials such as titanium when paired with the right expertise.

Building on its established experience printing titanium components, Fastech has applied this expertise to the Meltio Blue Laser M600 and Meltio Robot Cell to demonstrate the system’s full manufacturing potential. Produced using Meltio’s wire-laser metal deposition technology, this Titanium 64 propulsion adapter was developed by the Meltio team as a technology showcase to highlight two key capabilities of the platform: the stable processing of reactive, aerospace-grade titanium using Blue Laser technology, and the ability to manufacture complex, near-net-shape geometries with high material efficiency in a fully inert environment. As the first Meltio reference center in the United States, Fastech demonstrates how this platform enables the production of high-value, structurally critical aerospace components that would be difficult, time-consuming, or cost-prohibitive to manufacture using conventional methods.

Propulsion Adapter

 

A Component Designed to Challenge Manufacturing Limits

The propulsion adapter is intended to connect the wing structure to the main fuselage of an unmanned aerial vehicle. This type of aerospace application demands high mechanical strength, excellent material integrity, and precise dimensional control. The part’s geometry includes internal cavities, varying wall thicknesses, and load-bearing features that traditionally require complex multi-step machining processes.

By leveraging additive manufacturing, the component can be produced as a near-net-shape part in a single build. This approach reduces material waste, shortens lead times, and enables design freedom that supports performance-driven engineering rather than manufacturing compromise.

Printing Titanium with Confidence

Titanium 64 is widely used in aerospace for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, but it is also notoriously challenging to process. Meltio’s wire-based deposition approach addresses many of these challenges. Using titanium wire rather than powder improves material efficiency, enhances safety, and ensures consistent chemistry throughout the build.

For this demonstration, the part was printed on a Meltio M600 using an inert argon atmosphere with full inertization, a critical requirement when working with reactive materials such as titanium. The build envelope measured approximately 257 x 400 x 200 mm, resulting in a finished weight of 4.27 kg. A layer height of 1.2 mm was selected to balance deposition efficiency with geometric resolution.

The system operated with Meltio’s blue laser technology, running at power levels of 1.0 kW to 1.4 kW, with total build times ranging from just over 9 hours to approximately 12.5 hours depending on parameters. These settings highlight how the M600 can be tuned for productivity while maintaining excellent metallurgical quality.

 

Titanium 64 propulsion adapter printed on the Meltio M600, demonstrating complex geometry and Blue Laser wire-based additive manufacturing for aerospace applications.

 

The Advantage of Blue Laser Technology

Blue laser technology represents a significant advancement in metal additive manufacturing. Compared to infrared lasers, blue lasers offer higher absorption rates in reflective materials such as titanium, copper, and aluminum. This improved energy coupling results in a more stable melt pool, better process control, and consistent deposition quality.

For manufacturers, this means greater confidence when scaling production or qualifying parts for end-use applications. It also opens the door to printing a wider range of materials on a single platform, increasing flexibility across industries such as aerospace, defense, and naval manufacturing.

Unlocking New Manufacturing Potential

This propulsion adapter demonstrates more than just a single component. It represents the broader potential of the Meltio M600 as a manufacturing tool. The system supports a wide range of materials beyond titanium, including stainless steels, tool steels, Inconel, and copper alloys. Its ability to print, repair, and add features to existing components makes it equally valuable for prototyping, production, and maintenance operations.

At Fastech, this capability aligns with a deep expertise in advanced manufacturing and automation. As a Meltio reference site, Fastech is positioned to help manufacturers explore how wire-laser metal deposition can be integrated into real-world production environments, delivering performance, efficiency, and design freedom that traditional methods struggle to match.

This titanium propulsion adapter is a glimpse into what modern metal additive manufacturing can achieve when technology, material science, and manufacturing expertise come together.

If you are facing complex, hard-to-manufacture components like this and want to explore more efficient ways to produce them, Fastech is here to help. With deep experience in titanium processing and advanced metal additive manufacturing, our team works closely with customers to evaluate applications, optimize designs, and identify the right manufacturing approach. Whether you are in early development or preparing for production, we can help turn challenging parts into practical, manufacturable solutions.

As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on what 2025 has meant for Fastech. It has been a year defined by momentum, visibility, and conviction—conviction in our capabilities, our people, and our belief that additive manufacturing is not just an alternative, but a powerful way forward for some of the world’s most demanding industries.

Throughout the year, Fastech has had a strong presence across key international trade shows and industry events, including AMUG, Rapid + TCT, Formnext, the Paris Air Show, and the AM² Hub Conference. These platforms allowed us not only to exhibit our technologies, but also to take part in meaningful discussions and speaking opportunities that are shaping the future of manufacturing. Engaging with industry leaders across aerospace, defense, and oil and gas reinforced a clear message throughout 2025: conventional manufacturing methods alone are no longer enough, and innovation through additive manufacturing is no longer optional but essential.

One of the highlights of 2025 has been the opportunity to take the stage at several of these events. Our speaking engagements allowed us to showcase our additive manufacturing expertise, particularly in laser wire Directed Energy Deposition (DED) and WAAM (Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing). More importantly, they gave us the chance to demonstrate how Fastech approaches manufacturing challenges differently, by combining engineering rigor with creative problem-solving and a readiness mindset that goes beyond machines and materials.

At Fastech, additive manufacturing is not about novelty. It’s about performance, readiness, and sustainment. It’s about repairing, rebuilding, and producing critical components faster, closer to the point of need, and with greater design freedom. This philosophy resonated strongly across the shows and conversations we had this year, reinforcing that our approach is aligned with real operational needs.

AUKUS Trade Mission – Australia

A defining moment of the year was the “Ready for Action” event, organized in special collaboration with Meltio. This event was more than a showcase, it was a statement. A statement that Fastech is ready to take on any manufacturing challenge and make it happen through additive manufacturing. Together, we demonstrated how laser wire DED solutions can deliver agility, resilience, and efficiency for critical sectors where downtime is not an option.

Ready for Action – Highlights video

Ready For Action 2025 – Accelerating Readiness, Sustaining the Future!

“Ready for Action” highlighted what readiness truly means: the ability to respond, adapt, and deliver under pressure. For industries such as defense, aerospace, and oil and gas, this readiness directly supports sustainment strategies, operational continuity, and long-term capability. It reinforced Fastech’s role not just as a technology provider, but as a trusted partner committed to mission success.

None of this would be possible without strong collaborations, whether with technology partners, customers, or industry stakeholders. 2025 has strengthened these relationships and opened the door to new ones, all driven by a shared ambition to push boundaries and deliver real-world impact through advanced manufacturing.

Top Employer for Interns’ Awards

As we look ahead to 2026, the outlook is energizing. More collaborations, bigger projects, and even greater innovation are on the horizon. We are entering the new year with confidence, focus, and a continued commitment to defying conventional manufacturing methods and redefining what’s possible with additive manufacturing.

To all our partners and clients: thank you for your trust, collaboration, and shared vision. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and we look forward to working together on even more ambitious projects in 2026.

Let’s keep building. Let’s keep innovating.
Let’s be Ready for Action, together!