Frequently Asked Questions
Discover Wallwork’s Frequently Asked Questions here…
Wallwork Group Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Wallwork Group?
Wallwork Group is a privately owned UK-based company specialising in thermal processing and surface engineered coatings.
How can I reduce carbon footprint?
Using Wallwork Group Transport reduces your carbon footprint by utilizing optimized, shared delivery routes. Our multi-drop network minimizes empty mileage and maximizes fuel efficiency. By consolidating shipments through established routes, you support a more sustainable logistics model while ensuring reliable, timely delivery with reduced environmental impact.
What type of heat treatment processes do we offer?
What type of coatings processes do we offer?
Do you offer hardness testing post-treatment?
Do you offer collection and delivery services?
Is there a minimum batch size?
Where is the Wallwork Group located?
The Wallwork Group are spread out across 4 locations in the UK including Manchester, Birmingham, Cambridge and Newcastle. Our head office is based in Bury, Manchester.
How can I track the status of my order?
To check updates or progress on an order, please log into the Customer Portal for real-time tracking and details. Alternatively, you can contact the site directly for assistance.
Are you ISO 9100/AS9100 certified?
How do you control distortion and dimensional changes?
We aim to minimise distortion and dimensional changes through carefully controlled processes and fixturing. However, it’s important to note that all heat treatment methods carry inherent risks of distortion due to material characteristics, geometry, and thermal stresses introduced during processing.
What is the maximum load size or part dimensions you can accommodate?
Who do I contact for technical queries?
Manchester – Heat Treatment and HIP – [email protected]
Cambridge – Heat Treatment, Lab and Plasma Nitride – [email protected]
Cambridge – Coatings and Vacuum Brazing – [email protected]
Birmingham – Heat Treatment – [email protected]
Cast Alloys – [email protected]
For all other contact info please click here
How do I set up a new account or send my first order?
Heat Treatment Frequently Asked Questions
What heat treatment services does Wallwork offer?
Wallwork Group is a privately owned UK-based company specialising in thermal processing and surface engineered coatings.
Which materials can be heat treated?
Using Wallwork Group Transport reduces your carbon footprint by utilizing optimized, shared delivery routes. Our multi-drop network minimizes empty mileage and maximizes fuel efficiency. By consolidating shipments through established routes, you support a more sustainable logistics model while ensuring reliable, timely delivery with reduced environmental impact.
Can Wallwork heat treat large or complex components?
What standards and approvals does Wallwork have for heat treatment?
What is the difference between the various heat treatment methods?
What is the turnaround time for heat treatment at Wallwork?
How do I know which heat treatment process is right for my part?
What temperatures are used in heat treatment processes?
What are the benefits of heat treating metal components?
The Wallwork Group are spread out across 4 locations in the UK including Manchester, Birmingham, Cambridge and Newcastle. Our head office is based in Bury, Manchester.
What industries does Wallwork serve with heat treatment?
To check updates or progress on an order, please log into the Customer Portal for real-time tracking and details. Alternatively, you can contact the site directly for assistance.
What is Heat Treatment?
How long does the heat treatment process take?
We aim to minimise distortion and dimensional changes through carefully controlled processes and fixturing. However, it’s important to note that all heat treatment methods carry inherent risks of distortion due to material characteristics, geometry, and thermal stresses introduced during processing.
Is distortion a concern during heat treatment, and how is it managed?
Can Wallwork provide heat treatment for aerospace components?
Manchester – Heat Treatment and HIP – [email protected]
Cambridge – Heat Treatment, Lab and Plasma Nitride – [email protected]
Cambridge – Coatings and Vacuum Brazing – [email protected]
Birmingham – Heat Treatment – [email protected]
Cast Alloys – [email protected]
For all other contact info please click here
How can I request a quote for heat treatment services?
Coatings Frequently Asked Questions
What coatings do Wallwork Group offer?
Wallwork offers a variety of coatings including Nitron C, Nitron CA, Nitron CX, Nitron DLC, Nitron DX, Nitron MC and Nitron Ti. For more information click here.
What are the benefit of PVD Coatings?
PVD coatings enhance component performance and longevity by providing anti-sticking, low friction, and anti-oxidation properties, leaving no chemical residue.
Why Wallwork Group?
Wallwork is a UK-owned company specializing in Heat Treatment, HIP, and Coatings. With our in-house transport fleet, we offer reliable nationwide collection and delivery of your parts.
What does DLC Mean?
DLC stands for Diamond Like Carbon. Wallwork offer Nitron DLC which is a pure diamond-like coating (DLC Coating) known for its lubricating and hard wearing properties. For more info click here.
How do I know which coating is best for my application?
Choosing the right coating depends on factors such as the material, operating environment, and specific performance requirements like wear resistance, corrosion protection, or heat resistance. Wallwork’s team of experts can help assess your needs and recommend the most suitable coating solution. For personalized advice, please contact Brett Nicholson at [email protected].
Does Wallwork offer any post-coating inspection or testing?
Yes, Wallwork offers comprehensive post-coating inspection and testing services to ensure the quality and performance of the coatings. We use advanced techniques such as visual inspections, thickness measurements, adhesion testing, and more to verify that the coatings meet the required specifications. For more information, please contact Brett Nicholson at [email protected].
What are PVD Coatings?
PVD Coatings are a Vacuum based coating process which is used to apply a thin, durable films to the surface of parts.
What PVD Equipment do Wallwork Group have?
Wallwork Cambridge have 6 Electron Beam PVD Machines, 2 Magnatron Machines, 2 Plasma Enhancement CVD Machines and 2 Automated Cleaning Systems accompanies by an in-house lab facility to support metallurgical analysis development.
What is TECVAC?
Wallwork Cambridge formerly known as Tecvac Ltd is part of the Wallwork Group Ltd and has a substantial portfolio of commercially available treatments, such as PVD/CVD Coatings, Heat Treatment and Vacuum Brazing. Tecvac Ltd provides this service over a variety of industries covering Aerospace, Automotive, Biomedical, Motorsport and Manufacturing sectors covering the breadth of the UK and Europe.
Can coatings be customized for specific requirements?
Yes, Wallwork offers customized coatings tailored to your specific needs. Whether you require enhanced wear resistance, corrosion protection, or thermal stability, our team works closely with you to select and apply the best coating for your application. For more information and to discuss your specific requirements, please contact Brett Nicholson at [email protected].
What certifications and approvals does Wallwork hold for coating services?
Wallwork holds key industry certifications, including Nadcap accreditation, AS9100, ISO 9001, and ISO 14001. We are also approved by major aerospace primes such as Rolls-Royce, Airbus, and BAE Systems. For a full list, please click here.
HIP Frequently Asked Questions
What does HIP stand for?
HIP Stands for Hot Isostatic Pressing
How does HIP improve fatigue resistance?
By eliminating internal defects and voids, HIP reduces the likelihood of crack initiation, significantly improving fatigue resistance and extending the lifespan of critical components.
What are the typical temperatures and pressures used in HIP?
HIP typically operates at temperatures ranging from 500°C to 1300°C and pressures between 50MPa and 200MPa. The exact settings depend on the material and application.
Can HIP be used for repair applications?
Yes, HIP can be used to repair and rejuvenate components by closing internal cracks and voids, restoring the component’s structural integrity and performance.
What is the difference between Hot Isostatic Pressing and Cold Isostatic Pressing?
The primary difference is temperature. HIP uses high temperature and pressure, while Cold Isostatic Pressing (CIP) uses only high pressure at room temperature. HIP also offers better densification and mechanical property improvement.
What is the typical cycle time for a HIP process?
HIP cycle times vary based on the material and application. Standard cycles may last anywhere from several hours to over a day.
What industries use Hot Isostatic Pressing?
Industries such as aerospace, medical (implants), automotive, energy, and defense frequently use HIP for high-performance and safety-critical components.
What is Hot Isostatic Pressing?
Hot Isostatic Pressing, commonly abbreviated as HIP, is a high temperature thermal process, which involves simultaneous application of high temperature and high pressure within a chamber. The main objective of HIP is to eliminate porosity within the material and improve mechanical properties, such as strength and ductility.
How does Hot Isostatic Pressing work?
To achieve the required pressure, an inert gas is utilised to prevent chemical reactions within the processed material and the pressure is applied isotropically. Argon is the preferred process gas utilised at Wallwork HIP, ensuring customer components are processed according to the leading industry standards, which is vital when operating at temperatures up to 1250°c.
What are the benefits of Hot Isostatic Pressing?
HIP improves material density, strength, fatigue resistance, and eliminates internal porosity. It can also improve the life and performance of components, especially in critical applications like aerospace.
Can 3D-Printed parts benefit from HIP?
Yes, HIP is particularly beneficial for 3D-printed parts as it reduces porosity and enhances strength and durability. It’s commonly used as a post-process for metal additive manufactured parts that will be used in aerospace, as well as other critical applications.
Is HIP environmentally friendly?
Whilst HIP does consume energy, its ability to enhance the durability and lifespan of components reduces waste and the need for frequent replacements, making it environmentally sustainable in the long run.
What applications is Hot Isostatic Pressing applicable for?
Manchester – Heat Treatment and HIP – [email protected]
Cambridge – Heat Treatment, Lab and Plasma Nitride – [email protected]
Cambridge – Coatings and Vacuum Brazing – [email protected]
Birmingham – Heat Treatment – [email protected]
Cast Alloys – [email protected]
For all other contact info please click here
What materials are suitable for Hot Isostatic Pressing?
Lab Services Frequently Asked Questions
What laboratory services do Wallwork offer?
Wallwork offers a full range of metallurgical and materials testing services, including hardness testing, microstructural analysis, failure investigation, surface analysis, and verification of heat treatment and coating processes.
Can Wallwork provide metallurgical analysis?
Yes, Wallwork provides comprehensive metallurgical analysis, including grain structure evaluation, phase identification, case depth measurement, and microstructure interpretation to support quality control and product development.
What is failure analysis, and do Wallwork offer it?
Failure analysis identifies the root cause of material or component failure. Wallwork’s lab offers this service using detailed inspections, fracture analysis, and metallurgical evaluation to help prevent future failures and improve designs.
What lab equipment do Wallwork have?
Wallwork’s lab is equipped with advanced instruments including a scanning electron microscope (SEM), microhardness testers, scratch testers, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), 3D surface profilometer, and optical microscopes. This allows for detailed analysis of coatings, materials, and heat-treated components with high precision. For a full detailed list of our lab equipment please click here.
What standards do Wallwork follow for laboratory testing?
Wallwork follows international and industry-recognised standards such as ASTM, ISO, and aerospace-specific requirements to ensure accurate, consistent, and compliant testing across all services.
What testing methods are used in Wallwork’s lab?
Wallwork uses advanced testing methods such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), hardness and microhardness testing, surface roughness analysis, and metallographic evaluation to ensure precise and reliable results.
What materials can be tested in the lab?
Wallwork’s laboratory can test a wide variety of materials including steels, stainless steels, titanium, aluminium, nickel-based alloys, and coated components used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and general engineering industries.
How long does laboratory testing take at Wallwork?
Turnaround time varies by test type and volume, but most standard testing can be completed within a few working days. For urgent requirements, expedited services may be available. Contact Andy Day at [email protected] for lead times.
Can the lab verify heat treatment or coatings results?
Yes, Wallwork’s lab verifies heat treatment and coating results by measuring hardness profiles, case depth, microstructure, and coating thickness to ensure processes meet required specifications and standards.
How do I request lab services or get a quote?
To request laboratory services or receive a quote, please contact Andy Day at [email protected]. Provide details about your project, materials, and testing requirements for a tailored response.
Vacuum Brazing Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vacuum Brazing?
Vacuum Brazing is a joining process which can offer significant advantages in terms of cleanliness, joint strength and integrity.
What are the main applications of vacuum brazing?
Vacuum brazing is used in a variety of high-performance industries. In aerospace, it’s ideal for blades and honeycomb structures. Medical device sub-assemblies benefit from its clean, strong joints. It’s also common in heat exchangers, electrical and electronic fittings, and high vacuum systems. Automotive and motorsport applications use it for durable sub-assemblies, while precision components in measurement and analytical equipment rely on its accuracy and reliability.
What certifications and approvals does Wallwork hold for vacuum brazing services?
AS9100, NADCAP, Various Aerospace and F1 approvals. For our full list of approvals please click here.
Can vacuum brazing be used to join dissimilar metals?
Yes, vacuum brazing is well-suited for joining dissimilar metals. It allows for strong, reliable joints between materials with different thermal and mechanical properties, making it ideal for complex or multi-material assemblies.
How long does the vacuum brazing process take?
The vacuum brazing process typically takes several hours, depending on the size and complexity of the components. For a more accurate time estimate, please contact Brett Nicholson at [email protected].
What are the temperature ranges used in vacuum brazing?
How much does Vacuum Brazing cost?
The cost of vacuum brazing varies based on part size, quantity, material, and joint complexity. For an accurate quote, please get in touch with Brett Nicholson at [email protected].
What is the vacuum brazing process and how does it work?
Vacuum Brazing is performed under vacuum with excellent temperature uniformity. This means that components can be treated using controlled heating and cooling which in turn reduces residual stress in the component.
What are the key benefits and advantages of vacuum brazing?
One of the primary benefits of Vacuum Brazing is its ability to produce joints with high strength while maintaining the base material’s original properties, ensuring structural integrity. It is also cost-effective on a per-part basis, especially in large-scale production. The process allows for the joining of dissimilar materials, broadening its application across various industries. Additionally, vacuum brazing is a clean process, as it eliminates the need for flux, resulting in no residue. It produces void-free and leak-proof joints, which enhances reliability. The method also supports the simultaneous processing of multiple joints and parts, leading to improved overall quality and efficiency in manufacturing.
What is Wallwork’s vacuum brazing capacity and capability?
Wallwork can process vacuum brazed parts up to 1.5 meters in length, with working zones measuring 840mm x 900mm x 1700mm.
What materials can be vacuum brazed?
Vacuum brazing is compatible with a wide range of materials, including stainless steel, titanium, copper, nickel alloys, aluminium, and many dissimilar metal combinations. It’s ideal for metals that require clean, high-strength joints without oxidation.
How does Wallwork ensure quality control in vacuum brazing?
Wallwork ensures quality control through strict process monitoring, precision temperature control, and thorough inspection of all joints. We operate under certified quality standards and use advanced testing methods to guarantee clean, strong, and defect-free brazed components.
Can vacuum brazing be used for leak-tight or hermetic seals?
Yes, vacuum brazing is ideal for producing leak-tight and hermetic seals. The process creates clean, strong, and void-free joints, making it suitable for critical applications in aerospace, medical, and vacuum systems.
Transport and Logistics Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Wallwork Group?
Wallwork Group is a privately owned UK-based company specialising in thermal processing and surface engineered coatings.
How can I reduce carbon footprint?
Using Wallwork Group Transport reduces your carbon footprint by utilizing optimized, shared delivery routes. Our multi-drop network minimizes empty mileage and maximizes fuel efficiency. By consolidating shipments through established routes, you support a more sustainable logistics model while ensuring reliable, timely delivery with reduced environmental impact.
What type of heat treatment processes do we offer?
What type of coatings processes do we offer?
Do you offer hardness testing post-treatment?
Do you offer collection and delivery services?
Is there a minimum batch size?
Where is the Wallwork Group located?
The Wallwork Group are spread out across 4 locations in the UK including Manchester, Birmingham, Cambridge and Newcastle. Our head office is based in Bury, Manchester.
How can I track the status of my order?
To check updates or progress on an order, please log into the Customer Portal for real-time tracking and details. Alternatively, you can contact the site directly for assistance.
Are you ISO 9100/AS9100 certified?
How do you control distortion and dimensional changes?
We aim to minimise distortion and dimensional changes through carefully controlled processes and fixturing. However, it’s important to note that all heat treatment methods carry inherent risks of distortion due to material characteristics, geometry, and thermal stresses introduced during processing.
What is the maximum load size or part dimensions you can accommodate?
Who do I contact for technical queries?
Manchester – Heat Treatment and HIP – [email protected]
Cambridge – Heat Treatment, Lab and Plasma Nitride – [email protected]
Cambridge – Coatings and Vacuum Brazing – [email protected]
Birmingham – Heat Treatment – [email protected]
Cast Alloys – [email protected]
For all other contact info please click here
How do I set up a new account or send my first order?
Transport and Logistics Frequently Asked Questions