“Demand from customers for processing components in our first hot isostatic press has been astonishing. It is prudent to bring forward planned investment for the next HIP, knowing it will take most of 2024 to build and install. We hope to have it up and running by early 2025. Deciding to prepare pits for expansion during the first installation has proved right,” explained group director, Simeon Collins.
“We expected strong demand from UK castings, 3D printing, powder fabrication, and near-net-shape manufacturers. Especially, as the UK is currently under-served with hot isostatic pressing capacity. More surprising is the amount of international interest we are seeing. Coming from Europe but also as far as India,” added Wallwork HIP Centre, business manager, David Loughlin.
Adding a second HIP sooner has many advantages for the business. It will provide greater flexibility in processing customer components. It will also allow better contingency during planned maintenance schedules. Improving continuity during unexpected business interruptions is an added benefit.
The second HIP will be identical to the first. Operating at pressures from 40 to 207 MPa (5,800 to 30,000 psi) and temperatures up to 1250°C. It will also have the latest rapid cooling technology. The capability to offer increased cycle pressures at elevated temperatures, complements engineering advances in metal 3D printing and more.
Signing for the new hot isostatic press took place at Quintus Technologies’ HQ in Sweden in January 2024. Wallwork directors Simeon Collins and Ian Griffin were met by Jan Soderstrom CEO and Peter Henning Marketing and sales Director of Quintus.
“A hot isostatic press is a major piece of equipment. Quintus Technologies are world leaders in this technology. We are pleased to be cementing our relationship with them by bringing forward this investment. Quintus are a key part of the success of the Wallwork HIP Centre, now and into the future,” Simeon concluded.
