Sulzer marks opening of new laser metal deposition facility

During a ceremony marking Sulzer’s new celebrates new laser metal deposition facility, attendees were treated to private tours of this advanced additive manufacturing process with Sulzer experts on hand to explain the multiple benefits for turbomachinery repair and upgrade projects.

Sulzer marks the opening of its new laser metal deposition facility at its service center in La Porte, Texas, USA.

Sulzer said its HICoat Division is now offering laser metal deposition (LMD) services for a wide variety of materials. The division has delivered specialized coating solutions for rotating equipment for over 25 years.

In the past, customers requiring turbine repairs would rely on either thermal spray or submerged arc welding, the company said. LMD fills the gap between these two solutions, allowing Sulzer specialists to overcome traditional limitations regarding processing time, heat input, bond strength and material build-up. The process also is designed to reduce dilution and distortion while almost eliminating any requirement for post-weld heat treatment procedures, the company said. LMD creates a metallurgical bond that ensures excellent bonding with parent materials and increased consistency of material density – ideal for challenging rotor or shaft repairs.

“By adding this LMD facility to our Houston Service Center, we can enhance quality and reduce lead times - delivering an innovative alternative to conventional coating and welding options,” said Darayus Pardivala, president of Sulzer Services, Americas. “Ultimately, this will further support our commitment to improving the uptime and service life of our customers’ equipment.”

Pardivala launched the grand opening event with a welcoming speech to attendees. This was followed by an introduction of LMD services at Sulzer from Michael Andrepont, Gas Turbine Business development leader, and an overview of LMD benefits and applications by Alonzo Ortiz, superintendent for HICoat Division.