Research framework agreement signed with IFM for development of high strength alloys for wire feedstock
Highlights
  • AML3D partners with the Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) to develop high strength wire feedstock alloys suitable for high strength applications
  • Various alloy development opportunities identified, all with revenue generating opportunities
  • Several projects focusing on high strength application are being scoped currently with focus on revenue generating wire feedstock
  • Opens up access to new markets such as global equipment repair market

AML3D Limited (ASX: AL3) (“AML3D” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce the signing of a framework agreement to partner with Deakin University’s Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM). The new framework agreement will support projects that utilise the unique facilities, capabilities and expertise of IFM to develop next generation materials and alloys specifically tailored to WAM®, furthering the technological and competitive advantage of the Company.

A particular focus of the partnership will be on optimising technology for high strength alloys, as wire feedstock for 3D printing and welding markets. The partnership will support specific design of alloys that will deliver high strength wire coil for printing, with no need for subsequent post processing. This will open up new markets and applications for WAM®, such as maintenance and repair tasks where WAM® can be directly applied to existing vehicles and structures (where a subsequent heat treatment might not be feasible).

Such exciting new technology to be developed from the partnership is anticipated to open new target industries and sectors for AML3D, supporting the geographical and sector based expansion of the Company. For example, AML3D and Deakin’s recent high strength aluminium – scandium wire feedstock project targets expansion into the marine, defence and aerospace sectors, with opportunities existing in the Asia Pacific (Japan, South Korea), European (Germany, France & the UK) and North American markets as well as creating opportunity for bespoke wire feedstock sales through specific IP and company branded consumables.

With projects pertaining to the framework agreement currently underway, AML3D has identified additional alloy development opportunities with commercial outcomes which will be scoped separately under the agreement. The Company anticipates making future announcements as new projects relating to the agreement commence.

Commenting on the new agreement, AML3D Managing Director Andrew Sales,

The successful development of these alternative alloys provides significant potential upside for our business, not only through its application in WAM® and providing for other wire-fed DED processes, but the sales as a standalone feedstock product with widespread applications.  The intended production of wire feedstock will provide an alternative within the general welding technology market that exceeds current applications.  Whilst application through WAM® will provide customers greater flexibility in their choice of metal alloys, further enhancing the market leading position of our technology.

Andrew Rau, Senior Commercial Manager at Deakin University commented,

IFM has a long and proud history of partnering with industry to deliver applied research leading to commercial outcomes. This exciting partnership with AML3D is perfectly aligned with the unique facilities and capabilities within IFM and collectively we are looking forward to developing a range of unique alloy solutions enabling AML3D to continue to expand the markets and applications for their patented WAM® additive manufacturing process.

About AML3D Limited

AML3D Limited is an Australian public company incorporated on 14 November 2014 and currently operates out of its Adelaide Manufacturing Centre. The Company specialises in providing commercial large-scale “Additive Metal Layering” 3D printing services to Defence, Maritime, Automotive and Resources customers. The Company has commercialised its technology under the trademark WAM® and proprietary software WAMSoft® which combines metallurgical science and engineering design to fully automate the 3D printing process utilising advanced robotics technology.

The Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) at Deakin University
About The Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) at Deakin University

The Institute for Frontier Materials at Deakin University is a leading materials science research institute, graduating more than 30 PhD students a year and training 80 post-docs at any given time. Our researchers work with industry to address material challenges in the energy, mining, environment, health, transport, textiles and manufacturing sectors.