AP&C adds new atomisers and plans to triple production capacity
February 26, 2016
Arcam AB, Sweden, has announced that its metal powder manufacturing subsidiary AP&C in Montreal, Canada, is significantly expanding its capacity with the commissioning of three new plasma atomisers. It was stated that the investment follows a surge in demand for AP&C’s titanium powders and, when completed, production capacity will reach at least 500 tons per year.
“With this investment we are committing to supply our present and future customers with superior quality materials to meet the high manufacturing standards of the biomedical and aerospace industries. With the new reactors and atomising technology advancements, AP&C will triple production capacity in 2016,” stated Alain Dupont, President of AP&C.
The as-produced powder size distribution ranges from 0 to 250 microns with the vast majority between 0 to 106 microns
Plasma atomisation produces premium quality spherical powders of reactive and high melting point materials such as titanium. The process offers the highest purity possible and can produce powders of particle size distribution ranging from 0 to 250 µm with highly spherical particles and minimal satellite content. Plasma atomised powder exhibits exceptional flowability and packing properties.
“The need for high end titanium powder is driven by the fast growth and adoption of Additive Manufacturing. Arcam is determined to serve the industry through cost efficient solutions thus converting traditional manufacturing into Additive Manufacturing. A requisite is to offer highest quality powder for production at competitive cost,” added Magnus René, CEO of Arcam.
AP&C powders are extensively used in Additive Manufacturing, Metal Injection Moulding, Hot and Cold Isostatic Pressing, and thermal and cold spray coatings.
