Holdson and the University of Birmingham to accelerate use of refractory metals and Nitinol in Additive Manufacturing
February 15, 2024
Holdson Limited, Skelmanthorpe, UK, a developer of electrochemical equipment for post-processing additively manufactured components, and the University of Birmingham, UK, are collaborating in an attempt to accelerate the use of refractory metals and Nitinol (a nickel-titanium alloy) within the Additive Manufacturing industry.
Through the partnership, the organisations will explore how a range of material types are additively manufactured and post-processed for use in multiple applications.
“This collaboration aligns with Holdson’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in manufacturing,” stated Neil Dickinson, Chief Technology Officer, Holdson. “We are eager to work in partnership with the experts at the University of Birmingham to leverage our collective know-how in exploring new developments within AM.”
The University of Birmingham has already successfully carried out projects that resulted in the Additive Manufacturing of sample parts with Nitinol and various refractory metals, and has now teamed with Holdson to further the understanding of surface treatments. In doing so, the university will investigate the effects on the structural properties in additively manufactured components.
Prof Moataz Attallah, Director of the Advanced Materials & Processing Laboratory (AMPLab), University of Birmingham, commented, “Our experience with alloys, coupled with Holdson’s broad and deep post-processing knowledge, positions us perfectly to unlock the full potential of AM of high-value metals and alloys.
“Nitinol in particular presents a unique opportunity, as this shape-memory alloy could unlock many potential new developments, most notably within the medical sector. We will also target further opportunities for post-processing of refractory metals for use in the space and nuclear fusion sectors. We are excited about the possibilities that this collaboration holds.”
Holdson and the University of Birmingham will work together to conduct in-depth research, exploring the intricacies of Additive Manufacturing and post-processing a range of refractory metals.
Dickinson added, “In an era where manufacturing is undergoing rapid transformation, partnerships like these are crucial. We believe that our collaboration with The University of Birmingham will not only redefine AM processes but also contribute significantly to the broader landscape of advanced manufacturing. We look forward to making further announcements about the findings from this collaboration with such a prestigious academic team.”
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