Lincoln Electric Expands WAAM for Defense and Infrastructure

Lincoln Electric, a 130-year-old industrial company, has been leveraging wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) since 2019, positioning itself as a leader in large-format metal additive manufacturing. The company operates 26 WAAM systems in Cleveland, Ohio, with capabilities to produce components up to 10 feet in diameter and 10 tons in weight. Its vertically integrated approach includes feedstock, welding equipment, proprietary software, and post-print fabrication, making it the only provider of this scale in the industry.

WAAM, which originated in the 1920s, has evolved into an automated process combining gas metal arc welding, robotics, and advanced path-planning software. Lincoln Electric has demonstrated WAAM’s value in defense applications, such as producing a 316L stainless steel component for the U.S. Navy in 7 weeks, compared to 24+ weeks for traditional casting. The WAAM part met stringent Navy quality standards, with zero rejectable indications.

In infrastructure, Lincoln Electric delivered a 2,700-kilogram lever arm for the Soo Locks in 12 weeks, significantly faster than traditional foundry methods. The company also partnered with Hunt Valve to produce the first 3D-printed valve assembly for U.S. Navy submarines, reducing lead time by over 50% and improving quality. These projects highlight WAAM’s potential to transform manufacturing in defense and civil infrastructure.