Multi-Material Neck Flange for the Oil & Gas Industry

In the demanding Oil & Gas sector, equipment must endure extreme pressures, high temperatures, and corrosive environments. For this application, Vipra AM produced multi-material neck flanges using its advanced Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology. By combining Inconel 625 and ER70S Steel, Vipra AM achieved a high-performance solution that balances strength, corrosion resistance, and cost-efficiency—ideal for the extreme demands of oil platforms, subsea systems, and high-temperature piping.

Multi-Material Production with WAAM

Vipra AM’s WAAM technology enables seamless integration of two materials within a single part, optimizing both performance and cost. For this neck flange, high-performance Inconel 625 was applied in high-stress, high-corrosion areas, while ER70S Steel was used in less critical regions. This selective material placement ensures that the flange withstands the harshest operational conditions while maintaining an efficient and cost-effective design.

Inconel 625 is ideal for severe environments, offering:

• Corrosion and Oxidation Resistance: Withstands seawater, extreme temperatures, and corrosive agents.
• High Temperature Tolerance: Maintains integrity at high temperatures.
• Fatigue and Stress-Corrosion Cracking Resistance: Ensures long-lasting performance in high-stress applications.

ER70S Steel adds durability and cost-effectiveness with:

• Corrosion Resistance: Performs well in chloride-rich environments.
• Mechanical Versatility: Complements Inconel 625 by enhancing durability in less critical areas, optimizing material use and cost.

Key Benefits of Vipra AM’s Multi-Material Approach

• Enhanced Performance: Caracol’s WAAM technology allows for optimized material placement, enhancing part durability and functionality in challenging environments.
• Cost Efficiency: By using Inconel 625 only in high-stress areas and ER70S Steel elsewhere, the design achieves high performance without excessive costs.
• Rapid, Flexible Production: Vipra AM’s WAAM process ensures rapid, adaptable production, meeting the stringent timelines of the Oil & Gas industry.

Key Manufacturing Facts
TECHNOLOGY: Vipra XP (WAAM, Plasma Arc Deposition)
MATERIAL: Inconel625 and ER70S Steel
POST-PROCESSING: CNC
SIZE AND WEIGHT: 270 x 270 x 110, 22 Kg/piece
DEPOSITION RATE: 5 kg/h
3D PRINTING TIME: 19 hours

Related Case Studies

Check out our success stories