Metal powder in industrial 3D printing is more than a consumable: particle size distribution, sphericity, surface oxides, and moisture affect flowability, powder spreading, and thus the stability of the process window. PyroGenesis has reported a first order for “Fine Cut” titanium powder intended for use in Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF).
The shipment is Ti64—Ti-6Al-4V—in the 20 to 53 micrometer fraction. This particle-size class is common in LPBF systems because it enables a thin, uniform powder-bed layer without overly degrading flowability. According to the announcement, the customer is a U.S. contract manufacturer offering titanium-based manufacturing for consumer products and medical technology; the contract value remains confidential for competitive reasons. The powder has reportedly already been produced and is on its way to the customer.
The powder is produced using the NexGen plasma atomization system. In this process, molten metal is atomized in a plasma stream to obtain particles that are as spherical as possible—relevant in LPBF for stable layer thickness and consistent energy input. PyroGenesis describes the method as “chemical-free” and points to a lower CO₂ footprint compared with non-plasma-based methods, but does not provide detailed comparative figures in the announcement.
The order follows closely after a previously communicated order for half a ton of “Coarse Cut” titanium powder. The company is positioning itself for both coarser and finer fractions, which are required depending on the AM process and sieving strategy. PyroGenesis also notes that titanium is considered a critical raw material in Canada and the United States and is used in aerospace, medical technology, and other industries due to its high specific strength and corrosion resistance.
“The services segment of the metal AM space will be a growing presence as the AM industry continues its shift from prototyping to production, driving the need for increased on-demand and localized production capacity,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, President and CEO of PyroGenesis. “Expanding our reach to include premiere contract manufacturers in key manufacturing hubs, like the client announced today, is an important part of the planned growth of our metal powder business. This initial order begins what we hope may be an ongoing relationship with this client, who are specialists in using the grades of titanium powder that we produce. I believe that the continuous innovation of our patented NexGen plasma atomization system results in enhanced efficiency for metal powder production while at the same time reducing customer costs. This focus on continuous innovation reinforces our competitive advantage and underscores the company’s long-term value creation strategy.”
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