Busy engineering firm Thompson has embarked on a multi-million pound investment programme to expand its linear friction welding division.
The company is set to build arguably the worlds largest linear friction welding machine, which will be capable of joining components up to 25,000mm sq (40 inches sq).
In addition, the Halesowen-based business has created two new posts for a metallurgist and process engineer who will be closely involved in developing the new equipment.
Work on the design of the new e200 model, which will have a forge force of 200 tons, has already begun and the machine is due for completion next summer.
The e200 will be capable of joining a range of parts such as complex geometry automotive components and aerospace fuselage and blisks as well as those used in nuclear bi-metal and medical applications.
Thompson also aims to further develop the linear friction welding process so that it can be used in conjunction with other additive manufacturing methods such as additive layer manufacture (ALM) and HIPed components.
The company has recently joined forces with the Manufacturing
Technology Centre (MTC) at Coventry to help establish a UK centre of excellence
for linear friction welding technologies.
It has produced a machine capable of joining parts up to 10,000mm sq for use by researchers who are exploring new production techniques.
Thompson recognises that linear friction welding represents a growth market as the technology is now being exploited beyond the aerospace industry, explained sales director Nick Edge.
This substantial investment in our linear friction welding department will help us develop new business around the world and in sectors including automotive, yellow goods and general industry, he added.
More details about Thompson linear friction welding machines and applications can be viewed online at www.linearfrictionwelding.com