AML3D, an Australia-based specialist in large-scale metal additive manufacturing, is preparing to unveil a new facility for its patented WAM (Wire Additive Manufacturing) technology. The multi-million-dollar site—the WAM Technology Centre—is based in South Australia and will be showcased this Friday, July 9 at an event for customers and industry members.

AML3D’s large-scale metal AM process is finding a footing in the industrial additive manufacturing segment. Today, WAM technology is used for innovative applications in a number of industries, including aerospace, maritime and defense. Last week for instance, the company received a purchase contract from Boeing to produce a 3D printed tool weighing about 150 kg. We’ve also covered many stories about AML3D’s activities in the maritime segment; its WAM process is being explored for the production of navy ship parts by ASC Shipbuilding, and has been used in the production of a propeller for Japan-based 3DPC.

To address the growing interest in its WAM process—largely driven by significantly lower lead times for parts—AML3D is opening the WAM Technology Centre. The new facility, funded by the company’s $9M IPO and $7M capital raising event in 2020, will help to secure AML3D’s position as a leader in large-scale metal AM for industrial production. Notably, the opening closely follows the granting of an Australian patent to AML3D for its WAM process.

“We are really excited to officially open the doors to our headquarters this month and welcome industry and our peers to see our facilities and experience our patented WAM technology for themselves,” said Andrew Sales, Managing Director at AML3D. “The opening of this incredible facility has been a long time dream of AML3D and marks yet another significant milestone for our company and our journey alongside the recent granting of our patent. Our new premises will enable AML3D to keep up with accelerating demand in 3D printing, while continuing to push boundaries in technological research and development.”

AML3D is progressing steadily with its expansion. In the past year alone, the company has quadrupled in size (with a team of 30) and has welcomed a number of new customers, including Boeing, Austal, BAE Systems, Thyssenkrupp, Lightforce, Flowserve and others. With the imminent opening of its new facility, the company also expects to further expand its team, estimating 20-25% job growth in the next year or so.

“It’s incredibly exciting to see AML3D taking their innovative 3D printing process to the world and creating new jobs and opportunities in advanced manufacturing here in South Australia,” added David Pisoni, South Australian Minister for Innovation and Skills.