NewdReAM – New independent Resilient value chains for production using wire arc Additive Manufacturing

The overall purpose of the project is to develop new, more resource‑efficient and resilient value chains for the Swedish manufacturing industry by introducing and scaling up additive manufacturing of large steel structures using WAAM (wire arc additive manufacturing) technology.

The project addresses current challenges such as long lead times, high material consumption, and substantial CO₂ emissions associated with traditional manufacturing methods such as casting and forging. By combining simple base materials—such as plates and tubes, with the possibility of advanced WAAM structures, material waste, production costs, and climate impact can be significantly reduced.

Within the project, welding wire (used as deposition and build material in WAAM), stable process parameters, and full‑scale demonstrators for new production, repair, and upgrade of heavy steel components are verified. Special focus is placed on applications within the defence industry, where the need for robust and flexible production chains with reduced dependency on foreign manufacturers is substantial. The project also includes material testing to ensure that mechanical properties and quality meet industrial requirements.

NewdReAM is carried out in close collaboration between research institutes, universities, SME, material suppliers, and end users. The results will be widely disseminated through seminars, demonstration activities, and scientific publications, with the aim of accelerating industrial implementation of WAAM in Sweden. The project is expected to contribute to strengthened competitiveness, reduced dependence on global supply chains, and significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions in line with the goal of a climate‑neutral Swedish industry.