Strategic Move to Enhance Powder Metallurgy Production
Metalysis, a leader in powder metallurgy based in Rotherham, UK, has strengthened its production capabilities by acquiring a 40 kW spheroidiser from Tekna Holding ASA, located in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada. This advanced spheroidiser will enable Metalysis to produce spherical powders that are essential for high-value niche markets and for the development of new alloys at a smaller, more focused scale.
The acquisition of the spheroidiser is aligned with Metalysis’ strategy to expand its product offerings in refractory alloys, which are critical for high-temperature applications. These include tantalum and high-entropy alloys as well as alloys such as niobium C103 and FS85. The spheroidiser will play a key role in Metalysis’ effort to scale up production in these specialized alloys, catering to markets with demanding performance requirements such as Additive Manufacturing (AM), Metal Injection Moulding (MIM), and Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS).
Increased Efficiency and Sustainability in Powder Production
The integration of the Tekna spheroidiser significantly enhances Metalysis’ ability to refine its powders for use in Powder Metallurgy applications. By producing spherical powders, Metalysis can improve flowability, reduce internal porosity, and achieve higher packing density, which are critical for ensuring consistent quality in complex applications like AM and MIM. These improvements will help meet the most stringent demands of these advanced manufacturing processes, which are sensitive to the quality of the powders used.
One of the key advantages of Metalysis’ FFC Cambridge electrolysis process is its ability to produce powders with minimal waste by tailoring particle size precisely for each application. The spheroidiser further optimizes this process, ensuring that there is minimal under- or oversize powder produced, which in turn reduces the amount of scrap generated. This process not only helps in energy savings but also enhances sustainability by lowering the environmental impact of the production process.
Solidifying Metalysis’ Position in the Materials Supply Chain
The acquisition of this spheroidiser represents a major step in Metalysis’ long-term commitment to control its production processes and ensure greater efficiency and innovation in the powder metallurgy industry. By being able to produce spheroidised powders in-house, Metalysis reduces dependency on external suppliers, mitigates global supply chain risks, and shortens lead times. CEO Nitesh Shah emphasized, “This acquisition is a pivotal moment for Metalysis, as it reinforces our position in the critical materials supply chain while strengthening our sustainable footprint. We’re now better equipped to serve niche markets with high-performance alloys for advanced applications.”
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.