Technology

At Ultima Forma we are developing breakthrough technology solutions across a range of industry applications. We take a different approach to engineering design to manufacture. By combining materials science with engineering and manufacturing capability we are able to solve complex industry challenges and make step changes in performance.

We continue to develop core patented process and application technology in the following areas:

1) Ultim8 digital design process tools

2) Patented manufacturing process for producing functionally graded materials where properties can be designed

3) Application-level patents for example in hydrogen barriers and metallic coatings

4) Extensive knowhow in how to design components utilising electrochemical processes, materials science and manufacturing technology

5) Production facility with integrated robotics supported by design, CAE and test services

This underpinning technology and knowledge allow us to develop advanced applications, particularly focused in the following functional requirements;

Gas barriers

Chemical and electrolytic deposition of metals provide a dense effective barrier to small gaseous molecules such as hydrogen. Face centred cubic materials offer crystal structures that make effective permeability barriers even with thin-walled structures. At Ultima Forma we have extensive data on the permeability of our barriers to hydrogen, under pressure and with different barrier thicknesses. We also have experience developing tools for the modelling of hydrogen permeability and damage.

Erosion Protection

Electroformed metal barriers in nickel or nickel-cobalt are both very resistant to particle erosion and effective solutions for leading edge protection for composites for example.

Ultima Forma has extensive experience for how best to apply erosion protection skins to a range of substrate materials. We have worked with a range of chemical etches and surface treatments to achieve desired functional properties.

Lightweighting and Functionally Graded Materials

By managing the selective deposition of metals, parts with highly optimised properties can be manufactured. These can be hybrid material systems with complementary additive or other processes sourced by us to achieve very lightweight parts where materials are deployed only where they are needed.

The creation of advanced parts design are used to solve a range of engineering challenges such as fatigue, stress, fractures, environmental damage etc.

Our patented robotic multi-layering process enables material strength and modulus to be selected during the design process.

Net-shape HIP cans are developed to enable new part manufacture incorporating a wide range of metal powders. These are typically made from nickel or iron to commonly enable HIPed parts from Ti, ODS, Duplux steels, CuCrZr.

Heat Management

We have experience working with a wide range of materials that can act as insulative or conductive pathways, providing controlled thermal management through design and modelling. We have extensive experience working with the design of copper engineered parts, either as heat pipes, heat exchangers or heat sinks.

Chemical Protection

At Ultima Forma we select from a range of materials and processes to meet environmental performance requirements. Hybrid material systems with functional properties can be modelled, manufactured and tested to meet demanding tests.