Continuum and Mastrex develop PBF-LB parameters for metal powders
Continuum Powders, based in Houston, Texas, USA, and Mastrex, based in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, have announced a collaboration to evaluate and validate Continuum’s metal powders and develop processing parameters for them across Mastrex’s MX series of Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) Additive Manufacturing machines.
The collaboration combines Continuum’s materials expertise with Mastrex’s machine development, with the aim of simplifying the process from powder selection to production for Additive Manufacturing applications.
Initial work is focused on cobalt chrome, Ti-6Al-4V and 17-4 stainless steel. Nickel-based superalloys and copper-nickel alloys are also planned as the collaboration develops. The companies are working to optimise processing parameters and establish repeatable build performance across Mastrex’s portfolio of PBF-LB machines.
“One of the biggest barriers to broader adoption of additive manufacturing isn’t a lack of innovation, it’s reducing the effort required for customers to confidently implement new materials and technologies,” explained Jon Cozens, CEO, Continuum Powders. “By working closely with Mastrex from the beginning, we’re helping create a more seamless path from material selection and process development to successful production. Ultimately, our shared goal is to give customers greater confidence in the complete manufacturing solution, not just the powder.”
The companies are assessing powder behaviour, processing conditions, build consistency and material performance on applicable Mastrex machines. The work is intended to provide starting parameters and supporting technical data to reduce the time and resources required to introduce a new material.
“Mastrex entered the market with the aim of providing high-quality LPBF technology while at the same time lowering the barrier of entry,” stated Ilay Fridland, a partner at Mastrex. “Customers are looking for complete manufacturing solutions, not disconnected pieces of the process. Collaborating closely with Continuum allows us to optimise materials alongside our LPBF platforms, helping customers adopt new applications with greater confidence while reducing development effort.”
Both companies stated that the announcement marks the beginning of a broader technical collaboration. As additional materials progress through validation and qualification milestones, Continuum and Mastrex plan to share technical updates, application data and customer case studies covering powder-platform combinations in manufacturing environments.
“The future of Additive Manufacturing depends on strong collaboration across the industry,” Cozens added. “Success isn’t determined by great hardware or great materials alone. It’s achieved when every part of the manufacturing ecosystem works together to help customers move faster, reduce risk, and manufacture with confidence.”
Manufacturers interested in evaluating Continuum powders on a Mastrex PBF-LB Additive Manufacturing machine may contact the companies to discuss sample builds, parameter-development programmes and application-specific testing.
