Addressing the next generation of EHLA manufacturing challenges

Extreme High-speed Laser Application (EHLA) is a novel metallic deposition process that can be used effectively for the applications of coatings, repair, and additive manufacturing. This new process has been proven through Josh Barras's FLF to be game-changing within its field and amongst competitive state-of-the-art technologies. EHLA has now started to be industrialised by UK and worldwide companies, for rotationally symmetric coating and reconditioning applications. The processes potential benefits have also been validated as a disruptive technology for freeform deposition in areas of complex coatings, repair, and additive manufacturing . The aims of the research aligns to the Fellows mission statement; With Global Recognition, establish a reference capability of researchers, expertise, and infrastructure with a credible and thorough understand of the EHLA technology and its principal behaviours and potential applications. With this, the Fellowship renewal will build on the roots built in the original programme, presenting four new pillars of research: Championing EHLA technology take-up (1) Industrialising freeform EHLA (2) Investigating novel ideas (3) Fostering digital tools and quality assurance (4) The research will be undertaken by Fellow Josh Barras and hosted within The Welding Institute. The UK's first and leading facility dedicated the high-speed laser deposition process of EHLA will use state-of-the-art process equipment to conduct practical research of materials, process, applications, and system technology.