In a strategic move, the Wallwork Group has expedited its expansion plans by two years, securing a second hot isostatic press (HIP) from Quintus Technologies. This development follows closely on the heels of the inauguration of their £10 million Wallwork HIP Centre, with Quintus completing the commissioning of the first HIP in the third quarter of 2023.
The decision to invest in a second HIP is a response to the remarkable demand from customers for component processing in the first HIP, prompting Wallwork Group to bring forward their planned investment. The construction and installation of the new HIP are expected to take most of 2024, with the goal of having it operational by early 2025. Simeon Collins, group director, emphasized the prudence of preparing for expansion during the initial installation, a decision that has proven to be right.
David Loughlin, business manager at Wallwork HIP Centre, highlighted the surprising international interest the center has garnered, not only from Europe but also from as far as India. The second HIP is anticipated to address the under-served hot isostatic pressing capacity in the UK, particularly benefiting manufacturers involved in UK castings, 3D printing, powder fabrication, and near-net-shape production.
The advantages of adding a second HIP sooner include enhanced flexibility in processing customer components, improved contingency during planned maintenance schedules, and increased continuity during unexpected business interruptions. The second HIP will mirror the specifications of the first, operating at pressures ranging from 40 to 207 MPa (5,800 to 30,000 psi) and temperatures up to 1250°C. It will also feature the latest rapid cooling technology, aligning with advancements in metal 3D printing and beyond.
The signing for the new hot isostatic press occurred at Quintus Technologies’ headquarters in Sweden in January 2024, symbolizing a significant milestone in the collaboration between Wallwork Group and Quintus. Simeon Collins expressed satisfaction with the partnership, emphasizing Quintus Technologies’ role as a key contributor to the success of the Wallwork HIP Centre, both presently and in the future.