#Japan #Osaka #Daihen #WAAM #ArcBuilder3D

Introduce Metal 3D Printing with WAAM Technology

Daihen Co., Ltd. has announced its entry into the world of metal 3D printing by utilizing the innovative Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology. This new venture aims to revolutionize manufacturing processes across a variety of sectors, including shipbuilding, energy, construction machinery, and aerospace. By providing a faster and more cost-effective alternative to traditional metal crafting techniques like casting and machining, Daihen is positioning itself to drive advancement in various industrial fields.

Background and Future Outlook

In the current manufacturing landscape, companies are facing numerous challenges, including a complex global supply chain, stricter environmental regulations stemming from climate change, and labor shortages. This has heightened the necessity for adaptive manufacturing solutions. As a result, there is increased interest in metal 3D printing technology that negates the need for molds, minimizes material waste, and offers greater design flexibility and productivity.

Among metal 3D printing methods, Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) is widely accepted, where thin layers of metal powder are fused using lasers or electron beams. However, this approach is limited by high equipment and material costs and poses safety management challenges, particularly because it is not ideal for large structures. On the other hand, WAAM is expected to be a game-changer due to its superior productivity (with speed several times to tens of times greater than that of PBF) and lower costs, especially for the manufacturing of large metal components. However, challenges remain regarding quality, particularly in managing deformation caused by heat input and ensuring consistent output quality.

To address these challenges, Daihen has developed a groundbreaking metal additive manufacturing system, the ArcBuilder 3D, which combines its longstanding expertise in arc welding and advanced robot control technology. By manufacturing key components domestically, Daihen guarantees improved reliability and a swift support system. Additionally, the company offers a contract manufacturing service, leveraging its specialized knowledge in welding to facilitate the expansion of metal additive manufacturing.

Overview of the New Business

ArcBuilder 3D System Launch

• - The high-efficiency metal additive manufacturing system utilizes Daihen's proprietary AC sync-feed welding technology.
• - The system allows for high-speed forming at low temperatures while maintaining excellent bonding quality and dramatically reducing cooling times, with a 24% increase in manufacturing efficiency compared to traditional welding.
• - The machine can work with diverse materials including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloys by adjusting the welding waveform to suit the material.
• - A dedicated software assists with robot programming, making it easier to create complex large programs while ensuring optimal trajectory control based on the design specifications.

Contract Manufacturing Service

• - Daihen also offers a paid service based on customer-provided 3D data to create prototypes using the company’s system.
• - Skilled technical service personnel with expertise in welding and robotics will manage all processes from consultation and quotation to manufacturing and delivery in a streamlined manner.

Sales Plan for ArcBuilder 3D

• - Manufacturer's suggested retail price: 75 million yen (tax excluded) (subject to change based on system specifications).
• - Orders will commence on May 29, 2026.
• - The target for the first year is to sell 20 units annually.

As Daihen pursues this new endeavor, the company aims to steadily develop the domestic market and plans to expand into the larger North American and European markets beyond Japan by 2030, with a target revenue of ¥10 billion.

For inquiries related to this new business, please contact the Welding and Joining Division at Daihen Co., Ltd.