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Digital Engineering April 2026
In the latest issue of Digital Engineering, we take a look at the latest innovations in design for additive manufacturing, including the use of natural language inputs, social media cosplayers, and AI integration. The issue also includes a feature…
January Special Focus Issue: Design for Additive
In this Special Focus Issue of Digital Engineering, learn about the latest advancements in design for additive manufacturing, including new software tools, additive in automotive, custom medical devices, and more.
MELD Manufacturing Corp., a company focused on additive friction stir deposition (AFSD) technology, announces a strategic partnership with Mazak MegaStir Corp., a company known for its expertise in friction stir welding tools. This collaboration will enable MELD to exclusively offer tools and tool holders specifically designed for the AFSD process, also known as Friction Stir Additive Manufacturing (FSAM).
The AFSD process, patented by MELD Manufacturing, combines the advantages of friction stir welding with material deposition capabilities. As the sole Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for AFSD equipment, MELD Manufacturing is delivering a new capability for industry to replace long lead time castings and forgings for large components.
The exclusive supplier agreement with Mazak MegaStir means a milestone in the advancement of AFSD technology. By leveraging Mazak MegaStir's experience in friction stir welding tools, MELD Manufacturing will enhance its offering with purpose-built tools and tool holders specifically optimized for the AFSD process.
“Mazak MegaStir Corporation brings over twenty years of expertise and a long-standing reputation for delivering cutting-edge solutions in friction stir welding. Their tools are respected and valued for their durability, performance, and reliability in the most demanding manufacturing environments. The partnership with Mazak MegaStir Corporation will enable MELD Manufacturing to leverage this expertise for the AFSD process, and allow us to deliver reliable quality tools and tool holders to our user base faster,” says MELD Manufacturing CEO Nanci Hardwick.
Under the terms of the agreement, MELD Manufacturing will be the exclusive distributor of AFSD tools and tool holders produced by Mazak MegaStir Corporation. This collaboration ensures that MELD customers will have access to a range of precision-engineered tools specifically tailored for the AFSD process. By providing these tools through MELD Manufacturing, both companies aim to deliver solutions faster while streamlining the supply chain, ensuring integration, and results for AFSD users.
Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.
DE's editors contribute news and new product announcements to Digital Engineering. Press releases may be sent to them via [email protected].
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