The WAAM guidance notes specify information and product details to be provided by the manufacturer; provide an overview of the works inspection process; and detail the examination and testing requirements.
Senior Welding Specialist at LRQA, Adam Saxty, said: “Currently, many organizations are using conventionally designed welding wire for WAAM applications. The guidelines for the certification of consumables allow wire manufacturers to demonstrate the quality and consistency of their wire is suitable for WAAM, so that their products can stand out in the market. The end-user will have confidence that the wires are specifically examined and tested for WAAM, as well as the manufacturer’s works undergoing a suitable inspection.”
Currently used in various industries, such as marine, oil and gas, aerospace and defense, and construction, WAAM is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique often used to build medium to large components with low to average complexity, including bridges, small vessels, propellers and crane hooks.
LRQA's Lead Specialist, David Hardacre, added: “The potential for producing large products in shorter timescales has been a driving force in the worldwide adoption of WAAM. It’s also relatively cheaper to setup, as conventional welding equipment such as robots, energy sources and wire feeders can be utilised to create a WAAM cell, while the lower relative cost of using wire feedstock compared with metallic powder provides further benefits and incentives.”
Find out more about LRQA's Additive Manufacturing capabilities.