Additure to install large-scale Gefertec arc80X Additive Manufacturing machine at Preston facility
Additure, a subsidiary of engineering equipment supplier Kingsbury, has installed an arc80X Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) machine from Gefertec GmbH, Berlin, Germany, at its application centre in Preston, UK.
Kingsbury and Gefertec have enjoyed a close partnership over the past five years, with the UK company acting as the exclusive distributor for Gefertec’s wire-based Directed Energy Deposition (DED) machines on the British market.
Having observed the growing need for larger parts, Kingsbury decided to invest in a new arc80X, which can manufacture parts weighing up to eight tons, depending upon the respective design. The assembly space for the 3-axis version measures 2 x 2 x 2 m, and the 5-axis version can build parts with a diameter of up to 0.9 m and a height of up to 1.4 m. Automated functions include integrated tool measurement, gas nozzle cleaning, wire cutting, and replacement of wear parts.
With potential customers for Additive Manufacturing needing advice and support, Additure operates an application centre in its Preston location. This centre is equipped for contract manufacturing and can also be used to perform feasibility studies. An arc405 is already in operation here, with the new arc80X scheduled for operation in early 2025.
