West Midlands-based Alloy Wire International (AWI) has seen a 10% surge in orders for its nickel alloy wire, which is being used in components for the nuclear-power sector and critical seals and springs found in many of the world’s largest nuclear reactors.

Employing 31 people at sites in Brierley Hill and Yorkshire, the company (www.alloywire.com) is on course to hit £1 million of sales to the nuclear industry for the first time in 73 years, and its ability to fulfil orders in three weeks is a big factor in this.

A lot of the nickel alloy wire in its range can be treated with a special process that enables it to operate in one of the most demanding sectors.

AWI’s managing director, Mark Venables, said: “We have been supplying into this sector for a long time and have a track record for manufacturing quality.

“The last nine months have been our busiest time to date, and we are supplying wire that is going into both existing nuclear plants and also to new projects taking shape around the world.

“Companies need to know that the material they have ordered will withstand harsh temperatures and corrosion, and that it is manufactured in accordance with strict quality controls.”

The firm’s Emergency Manufacturing Service, which involves wire being produced and delivered within a few days, has also been in high demand — up nearly 15% on the same period last year.

“Investment in our manufacturing capabilities and our technical team allows us to offer this unique service, and we have spent over £250,000 already this year in the acquisition of 560mm single-block and 200mm multi-block drawing machines.

“This has enabled us to take on even more nuclear work, as we look to build on a record year in the nuclear sector.”