Tam Nguyen, PhD, a professor in Conestoga’s School of Engineering & Technology, gave a presentation to the Ontario chapter of international materials information society, ASM, on October 4, where he spoke about opportunities available to both industry and academia to advance the process of wire-arc additive manufacturing (WAAM).
Dr. Tam Nguyen discussed opportunities of the WAAM process to the Ontario chapter of ASM on October 4.
WAAM is an emerging directed energy deposition method for the additive manufacturing of metallic materials. The process utilizes an electric arc to melt and deposit a wide range of engineering alloys forming near-net or net shape components, turning a welding robotic system into a large 3D printer of high-quality metal shapes.
Faculty and students at Conestoga have been exploring the WAAM process since 2016. Dr. Nguyen’s previous work was recognized by the Canadian Institute for Steel Construction as a co-winner of the H.A. Krentz Research Award in 2022, along with his colleagues professor Scott Walbridge, PhD, from the University of Waterloo, and Conestoga professor Jim Galloway, BASc.
In addition to researchers from local universities and representatives from Ontario-based industrial firms expressing interest in collaborating and visiting Conestoga’s Cambridge - Fountain Street campus to learn more about the WAAM process, several Conestoga students from the Welding Engineering Technology - Inspection and the Manufacturing Engineering Technology - Welding and Robotics programs attended the event and connected with industry representatives to further advance various aspects of WAAM technology through capstone projects.
The Ontario Chapter of ASM is dedicated to connecting and engaging materials professionals and their organizations by providing an outlet for educational growth and networking. The group is dedicated to remaining innovative through skill development and helping professionals overcome design challenges.
The college works in collaboration with industry, community, and government partners to deliver innovative solutions to address real-world challenges. Conestoga is ranked among Canada’s top-tier research colleges, supporting the needs of industry and community partners while providing students with opportunities to build real-world skills. Visit Conestoga Applied Research and Innovation for more information.