The order covers the manufacture and delivery of 7,000 tungsten components. The components will be used in ESS’s target wheel system, where neutrons are produced when the proton beam from the facility’s accelerator strikes the tungsten material. These neutrons enable researchers to study materials at the atomic level and are used in research that can contribute to new solutions in areas including energy, health and industry.

“The order from ESS is an important validation of Freemelt’s expanded strategy and demonstrates that our combination of E-PBF technology, tungsten expertise and industrial delivery capabilities meets the demanding requirements of advanced research infrastructure. It confirms the market shift we are seeing, with customers increasingly seeking qualified manufacturing capacity and robust regional supply chains. This strengthens our conviction that Freemelt is well positioned to build Europe’s industrial platform for advanced metal components,” says Daniel Gidlund, CEO of Freemelt.

The tungsten components used in ESS’s target wheel system have a finite operational life and will therefore need to be replaced periodically. This recurring replacement requirement creates a long-term need for new production and may generate future business opportunities. Tungsten’s high melting point, thermal conductivity and resistance to thermal, mechanical and radiation-related stresses make it particularly well suited to this demanding application.

Freemelt will fulfil the order through its Manufacturing business area, together with established partners across the value chain, from material supply to finished, qualified components. The delivery demonstrates Freemelt’s ability to combine materials expertise, qualification and industrial production for applications with demanding technical requirements.