DEDICATE

The present research profile DEDICATE is motivated by (i) the considerable knowledge generated through Directed Energy Deposition (DED)-related projects at University West (UW), and by (ii) the realization of specific scientific gaps and industrial needs that have to be addressed to take DED further towards industrial exploitation. The most recent and prominent DED projects at UW have been (i) the SAMw Synergy Project, involving Laser Metal Deposition with wire (LMDw), focusing on duplex stainless steels and titanium; (ii) the TaperTech Synergy Project encompassing Laser Metal Deposition with Powder (LMDp) and Wire + Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), with focus on High-strength low alloyed (HSLA) structural steels and tool steels; and (iii) the SUMAN-Next Profile, that dealt holistically on both PBF and DED of superalloys. Among the above, SUMAN-Next has already resulted in the follow-up profile PODFAM being hived off to particularly address knowledge gaps and partner ambitions dedicated to PBF. DEDICATE can be seen as a complementary mirror profile to PODFAM, and a logical next step to address in a consolidated manner the aspirations of UW and its partners in the field of DED, covering a wide array of materials.

The specific goals of DEDICATE have been conceptualized based on considerations important to the various stakeholders that have come together to form a unique project consortium covering the entire value chain, in the interest of realizing a vibrant co-production network that would ensure active involvement of all partners. At the same time, the overarching aim of DEDICATE is to further strengthen Sweden´s competitiveness by broadening the AM competence hub already created at UW, with continued strategic development of a strong and sustainable research and education environment in this emergent field.