Abstract: A gas-dispersion apparatus for an additive-manufacturing apparatus includes a pipe defining an axis, an outlet, and a cooling tube coiled about the pipe. The pipe includes a passageway along the axis, and the pipe extends from a first end to a second end. The outlet is positioned to discharge gas into the passageway at the first end. The first end is attachable to a laser so that a beam emitted by the laser travels along the axis.

Abstract: An additive manufacture apparatus comprising a laser beam and wire supply system, wherein the laser beam and wire supply systems are movable with respect to a surface on which a component is to be built or a preceding weld bead, the laser beam and wire supply system being operable to create a plurality of weld beads and wherein at the end of forming one of said weld beads the weld supply system extends a length of wire and a nozzle forming the end of the wire supply system is simultaneously caused to retract away from the component being formed

Abstract: A gas-dispersion apparatus for an additive-manufacturing apparatus includes a pipe defining an axis, an outlet, and a cooling tube coiled about the pipe. The pipe includes a passageway along the axis, and the pipe extends from a first end to a second end. The outlet is positioned to discharge gas into the passageway at the first end. The first end is attachable to a laser so that a beam emitted by the laser travels along the axis.