AML3D reports success with Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing for body armour
July 29, 2020
AML3D Limited, Edinburgh, Australia, has reported success in first-stage product testing with Lightforce Australia Pty Ltd for the development of next-generation ‘made-to-fit’ titanium body armour, produced using titanium Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM).
The positive testing results allow both groups to move forward with the next stages of product development trials under the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the groups. These successful tests are said to have significantly increased the materiality of the MoU to AML3D, given both groups now have a clear path towards product development.
AML3D’s Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing technology, which enables the production of variable, made-to-fit components and plates rapidly, a function not possible using traditional subtractive techniques (forging, casting).
WAAM-produced titanium body armour has the potential to provide enhanced strength and reduced weight, resulting in a high degree of protection for defence and law enforcement personnel. This would reportedly be a world-first technology offering in the body armour industry, expected to exceed $3.0 billion by 2025 (CAGR of 5.5%).
It is thought that the commercialisation of AML3D’s WAAM body armour components could result in significant contract manufacturing revenues for AML3D as the product is adopted throughout Lightforce’s established customer base. Upon the successful completion of the entire product development program, the companies plan to formalise a commercial contract manufacturing agreement.
