are omitted then the selected mandrel 3 is connected to the drive mechanism g which is adapted to rotate the mandrel 3 and translate it axially causing the stream of molten metal from the arc spray to follow a spiraling path over the outer surface of the mandrel 3 the vessel 5 is closed sealed purged evacuated and filled with an inert gas such as argon the wire 1 from the spools 15 is feed through the wire drives 17 and wire tubes 19 into the spray chamber 13 inert gas is supplied through the nozzle 23 the mandrel drive mechanism g rotates and translates the mandrel 3 axially causing a spiraling motion with respect to the stream of molten metal from the arc spray typically the mandrel 3 is rotated about 60 rpm and moves axially at about 60 inches a minute while this is the preferred operation it is understood that the mandrel could be rotated slowly and rapidly reciprocated axially so as to operate sort of like an electric typewriter or printer which prints in both directions as the distal ends of the wires 1 approach each other an arc is formed creating sufficient heat to melt the distal ends of the wires 1 the inert gas flowing through the nozzle 23 at high velocity disbursing the molten wire 1 which flows in a molten stream directed toward the mandrel 3 upon which it collects and solidifies overlaying the array of fibers forming a metal composite monotape or overlaying the mandrel 3 to form a foil.