A DUDLEY-based supplier of wire in ‘high performance alloys’ has launched a new ‘app’ to help its global customer base find the right material for their applications.

Alloy Wire International (AWI) has spent the last four months developing an interactive database of all of its materials, their properties and their applications and this is now available on computers, mobile phones and tablets.

The web-based app, which has been developed by technical experts, allows users to search for the type of wire they need by industry sector (e.g. aerospace, oil & gas and nuclear) or by application solution, such as high strength, sub-zero temperature, heat, corrosion and water resistance.

Mark Venables, managing director, said: “We’ve got over 60 different nickel alloys in stock at any one time and we need to make sure our clients get the material that best suits their manufacturing requirements. The app will help them do just that.

“It also provides a whole host of information on each alloy. This includes a brief description, key features and profile options, with an easy enquiry form readily available to log your interest.”

He added: “The initial feedback has been very positive and customers have said the process is easy and has helped them make important decisions on material selection that they might not have chosen without it.”

Alloy Wire International, which makes round, flat, shaped profile and electrical resistance wire, is planning to translate the ‘Wire Finder’ app into a range of other languages to support its export drive.

This has seen the company supply into more than 52 countries, with the latest destinations to request AWI wire being the Dominican Republic, Nepal, Peru and Oman.

“About 50 per cent of our sales go overseas and this is a figure we believe will increase as we look to increase the number of international staff and the exhibitions we attend,” added Mark.

“The world is a lot smaller place these days and, thanks to our stockholding and manufacturing capabilities, we can produce wire and have it with clients – in any location across the globe - within 3 weeks.”

People can download it by visiting www.alloywire.com and click on ‘Visit the app’. It can then be added to a home screen on an iPhone or Android.