Phillips Corporation, a global leader in manufacturing technology, has successfully integrated Meltio’s Engine Blue into a Haas CNC machine, marking a significant advancement in hybrid manufacturing for the defence sector.
Key Developments in Hybrid Manufacturing
The integration of Meltio’s laser-wire metal 3-D printing solution with Haas CNC technology creates a streamlined workflow combining additive and subtractive manufacturing processes. This hybrid configuration enables defence manufacturers to produce complex metal parts with greater precision, shorter lead times, and reduced material waste.
Meltio’s Innovative Technology
Meltio’s Engine Blue uses welding wire as its metal feedstock, considered the safest, cleanest, and most affordable option available. This technology empowers manufacturers to elevate their CNC machining capabilities with integrated metal additive manufacturing (AM), providing an agile and scalable solution for mission-critical parts.
Strategic Partnership and Future Implications
This milestone strengthens the long-standing collaboration between Phillips Corporation and Meltio. The companies have previously worked together on defence projects, including the deployment of Meltio technology aboard a US Navy ship for onboard metal part manufacturing. The US Department of Defense has also adopted Meltio’s wire-laser metal 3-D printing systems to enhance supply chain resilience.
Brian Kristaponis, General Manager of Phillips Additive Hybrid, noted that integrating Meltio’s Engine Blue into the Haas CNC platform “unlocks a new level of control and versatility for manufacturers.” Gabriel Ortiz, Meltio’s Channel Manager in the USA, stated that this integration demonstrates their ability to keep pace with growing industrial demand for Directed Energy Deposition (DED) metal parts.
The successful integration was showcased at Rapid TCT in Detroit, Michigan, in April, highlighting the growing relevance of hybrid manufacturing in meeting the evolving demands of military operations and other industrial sectors.
