Outokumpu Expands Metal Powder Production with New Collaborations and Publicly Funded Projects

Outokumpu Expands Metal Powder Production with New Collaborations and Publicly Funded Projects

(IN BRIEF) Outokumpu is advancing its entry into the metal powder market for additive manufacturing, transitioning to commercial production after a successful pilot year at its Krefeld facility in Germany. The company aims to produce up to 330 tons of high-quality metal powder annually from 100% recycled stainless steel scrap. New partnerships have been established, including a collaboration with STAHL KREBS under the REACT project and efforts in the medical and jewelry sectors to create nickel-free materials. Marten Franz, Head of Metal Powder Business, highlighted the significant growth potential of the metal powder market, expecting it to reach USD 10.79 billion by 2029. Outokumpu will focus on developing unique metal powders for demanding applications and will utilize its in-house test laboratory for customization and validation. The company is committed to sustainability and expanding its portfolio to support sectors like energy and aerospace.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 13-Aug-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Outokumpu, a leading name in sustainable stainless steel, is advancing its entry into the metal powder market for additive manufacturing with several new initiatives. Following successful pilot production of metal powder at its Krefeld facility in Germany, the company is transitioning into commercial production after a fruitful trial year. Outokumpu aims to produce up to 330 tons of high-quality metal powder annually, sourced entirely from 100% recycled stainless steel scrap.

As part of this expansion, Outokumpu has entered into a partnership with STAHL KREBS, a steel trading company, under the REACT project funded by the German government. Additionally, the company is collaborating with players in the medical and jewelry sectors to develop nickel-free materials suitable for implants, medical instruments, and watches, supported by the EIT Raw Materials initiative and led by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.

Marten Franz, Head of Metal Powder Business at Outokumpu, emphasized the importance of additive manufacturing in the global green transition. “The market for metal powder in additive manufacturing has seen tremendous growth, with projections estimating it will reach USD 10.79 billion by 2029. Our goal is to leverage local steel scrap to deliver innovative solutions, and we are now ready to supply our customers and partners with high-quality, low-emission metal powders for 3D printing,” he stated.

Outokumpu’s strategy focuses on producing unique metal powders tailored for demanding applications. To support this effort, the company operates an in-house test laboratory where it can customize and validate applications in real time.

Franz added, “We believe that a sustainable and profitable economy requires a circular approach that promotes technological innovation and resource conservation. Together with our partners, we are committed to making significant progress toward this goal in 2024, while also expanding our portfolio with new stainless metal powders that leverage our century-long expertise in stainless flat products. This will include enhancements in corrosion and thermal resistance to better serve the energy and aerospace sectors.”

Media Contact:

Outokumpu media desk
tel. +358 40 351 9840
e-mail media(at)outokumpu.com

SOURCE: Outokumpu