Introduction
SPEE3D, a prominent name in large-format metal additive manufacturing, has entered into a strategic partnership with RusselSmith, a leading integrated energy solutions provider in West Africa. This collaboration aims to introduce SPEE3D’s advanced cold spray additive manufacturing (CSAM) technology to the region's oil and gas, defense, and commercial industries.
Strategic Partnership and Regional Deployment
RusselSmith, known for its sustainable and innovative technology solutions, will now serve as a regional partner and value-added reseller for SPEE3D products. This includes deploying, training, selling, and supporting customers using the cutting-edge CSAM technology. In line with this partnership, RusselSmith has acquired a WarpSPEE3D printer, making them a strategic sourcing partner capable of producing cold spray metal parts locally in Africa.
Technological Advancements with WarpSPEE3D
The WarpSPEE3D printer leverages patented SPEE3D technology to significantly accelerate and scale up production compared to traditional manufacturing methods. This technology can build parts weighing up to 40kg (88 lbs) and with a diameter of up to 1m x 0.7m (40″ x 30″) in just a matter of hours, marking a significant leap in manufacturing efficiency and capability.
Addressing Supply Chain Challenges in Nigeria
Nigeria, with one of the most dynamic energy sectors in the region, faces significant challenges in sustaining and maintaining equipment due to supply chain issues and difficulties in procuring legacy parts. These issues lead to considerable operational delays. SPEE3D and RusselSmith aim to bridge this gap by manufacturing necessary parts locally, thus enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs for companies in the oil and gas sector.
Exclusive Qualifications and Industry Leadership
RusselSmith stands out as the only organization qualified by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to deploy industrial non-metallic additive manufacturing solutions in the oil and gas industry. Additionally, RusselSmith's recent induction into the Additive Manufacturing Green Trade Association (AMTGA) underscores its leadership in the sector, being the sole African member company.
Commitment to Additive Manufacturing Growth
Byron Kennedy, CEO of SPEE3D, emphasized the company's commitment to global growth and development of additive manufacturing. He expressed enthusiasm about bringing SPEE3D’s CSAM solution to West Africa, noting the significance of partnering with a respected leader like RusselSmith. This partnership is expected to solve major supply chain issues and enhance operational efficiency in the region's industries.
Enhancing Operational Uptime and Efficiency
Kayode Adeleke, CEO of RusselSmith, highlighted the importance of promoting additive manufacturing technology to produce vital spare parts for the energy sector and other industries in Africa. The partnership with SPEE3D is seen as a game changer, enabling RusselSmith to rapidly manufacture high-quality parts on demand using innovative cold spray technology. This initiative is part of RusselSmith’s broader goal to become Africa’s leading provider of advanced digital and deployable additive manufacturing solutions.
