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6K, developer of microwave plasma technology to produce advanced materials used in additive manufacturing (AM) and other markets, launched AM powders derived from sustainable sources. 6K’s first-of-its-kind process can convert certified chemistry machined millings, turnings and other recycled feedstock sources into AM-ready metal powder.
In the future, 6K will extend its capability to feedstock created from AM support structures, non-conforming AM parts post-print and other inputs. The goal is to use 100% of the materials that enter the supply chain, providing AM end-users with a way to manage project costs and control the supply chain.
6K’s powder products combine two core technologies:
- The reclamation of metals and alloys from subtractive manufacturing and other operations. 6K presently reclaims and sells over 500 tons of Ti-64 per year into the aluminum alloying industry for medical and other products.
- UniMelt microwave production scale plasma, with a highly uniform and precise plasma zone with zero contamination, capable of high throughput production of AM materials.
Through its metals reclaimation strategy, 6K can specifically target the powder size distribution to the AM process of need: metal injection molding, electron beam melting, binder-jetting, etc.
6K Additive is an ISO 9001 Certified facility that processes over 500 tons of Ti-64 per year. The company is in the process of building a 40,000-square-foot production facility for additive manufacturing powders, scheduled to open in 1Q20.
