Phillips Corporation Celebrates 100th Machine Sold in Hybrid Division with Installation at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research 

Danville, VA — Phillips Corporation, a global leader in advanced manufacturing solutions, has achieved a major milestone with the sale of its 100th machine in its Additive Hybrid division. The landmark machine—a Wire-Arc Hybrid on a Haas UMC-500 CNC Machining Center—was purchased by the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) in Danville, Virginia, marking another significant step forward in advancing hybrid manufacturing education and defense workforce readiness. 

The new system expands IALR’s Hybrid fleet to four Phillips Additive Hybrid systems, making IALR one of the nation’s foremost adopters of hybrid manufacturing technology. The installation underscores both organizations’ shared commitment to innovation, education, and the future of U.S. manufacturing. 

“Reaching 100 systems in the Hybrid division sold is more than a sales milestone—it’s a reflection of how hybrid manufacturing is transforming industry and education alike,” said Dan Insogna, Regional Account Manager for Additive Manufacturing at Phillips Corporation. “IALR has been a model partner in demonstrating how hands-on hybrid training can accelerate workforce development and readiness for programs like Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM).” 

The UMC-500 Wire-Arc Hybrid system, powered by Fronius Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) technology, introduces additional capabilities for IALR’s ATDM program. Students can now gain experience with the same processes used throughout the U.S. maritime industrial base—producing larger near-net parts, performing component repairs, and mastering feature restoration critical to extending the service life of Navy assets. 

“At IALR, it is our goal to send students into the workforce with a broad range of skills relative to their trade,” said Wesley Cifers, Assistant Director of Advanced Training & Operations at IALR. “Many defense suppliers are adopting Phillips’ Wire-Arc Hybrid processes, so getting the students familiar with this system ensures that ATDM remains aligned with emerging defense and advanced manufacturing strategies.” 

The system incorporates several safety and performance features, including a welding-safe enclosure with arc-flash protection and door interlocks, advanced fume extraction, and two patent-pending designs: one for an electrically isolated rotary cooling plate, and another for an automated two-stage deployment mechanism that positions and retracts the welding torch. These features ensure both safety in the training environment and maximum capability in hybrid operations. 

“By introducing the new wire-arc hybrid system, we can give our students hands-on experience with a technology that they will likely see on a larger scale in industry,” added Cifers. “It allows efficient production of larger near-net parts and creates opportunities for repair and feature addition training on larger industrial components. This equipment positions ATDM as a test site for hybrid process optimization, allowing us to contribute back to industry and defense R&D efforts while simultaneously training the workforce.” 

IALR’s partnership with Phillips spans multiple installations and years of collaboration. From its first Laser-Wire Additive Hybrid systems to this latest Wire-Arc addition, Phillips has provided reliable service, technical expertise, and curriculum support. 

“Phillips Corporation has been a valued partner over the years for both equipment acquisition and support,” said Cifers. “Timely turnarounds and easy communication are standard. The Phillips Additive Hybrid team has offered consistent support and expertise during our introduction of these new technologies in our training programs.” 

About the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) 

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, workforce training, and manufacturing innovation. Located in Danville, Virginia, IALR is home to the nationally recognized ATDM program, which delivers accelerated training to meet the critical workforce needs of the U.S. defense maritime industrial base. Learn more at www.ialr.org. 

About Phillips Corporation 

Founded in 1961, Phillips Corporation is a global leader in manufacturing technology solutions, dedicated to empowering the manufacturing industry across both commercial and federal sectors. With expertise in Subtractive, Additive, Hybrid, Automation, Training, and Service, Phillips partners with manufacturers, educators, and government agencies to advance American innovation, productivity, and competitiveness. With more than six decades of experience, Phillips is proud to support the missions that strengthen our nation’s industrial base and prepare the next generation of skilled manufacturing talent. 

Learn more at www.phillipscorp.com. 

Media Contact: 

Lauren Ramsey, Vice President, US Marketing 

Phillips Corporation 

Email: LRamsey@phillipscorp.com 

Phone: (501) 993-0520