PyroGenesis eliminates tungsten inclusions in plasma atomised titanium powders
PyroGenesis Canada Inc., Montreal, Canada, a provider of plasma atomised spherical metallic powders for the Additive Manufacturing and Metal Injection Moulding (MIM) industries, now offers its customers tungsten-free plasma atomised titanium powder.
Because tungsten inclusions in titanium components can lead to crack initiation and, subsequently, part failure, tungsten-free metal powders are highly valued in the production of parts for the aerospace and medical industries, among other high-performance applications.
Pierre Carabin, Chief Technology Officer of PyroGenesis, explained, “The impact of tungsten inclusions in a final part can have serious consequences. […] Since the melting point of tungsten is higher than that of titanium, it does not melt during the AM process. As a result, tungsten inclusions can become preferred sites for crack initiation. This has led to catastrophic failures and is clearly unacceptable, particularly in the aerospace industry.”
PyroGenesis states that it has now adapted its plasma atomisation process to use tungsten-free nozzles, enabling the production of titanium powders with no tungsten inclusions. “We know of no other plasma atomisation process (using DC torches) which uses tungsten free nozzles,” stated P Peter Pascali, CEO & President of PyroGenesis. “Plasma torches with tungsten nozzles are at high risk of having tungsten inclusions in their powders. We no longer have that risk.”
“This is a significant development in powder production. What is noteworthy is that within a few short months of having been made aware of this problem, by significant players in the industry, PyroGenesis was able to find an answer,” he continued.
“This not only underscores PyroGenesis’ ability to quickly find solutions to complex issues, but how these solutions can lead to economically valuable alternatives, and open the door to addressing this need with potential clients.”
