3D Printing Materials

U.S.-based metal powder producer Continuum Powders has released two new copper-nickel alloy powders, OptiPowder C715 and OptiPowder C964, designed to perform reliably in challenging operating conditions. The powders deliver strong corrosion resistance, consistent thermal and electrical conductivity, and mechanical stability. Produced through the company’s proprietary Greyhound Melt-to-Powder (M2P) process using certified reclaimed feedstock, the alloys offer high performance while reducing environmental impact. Engineered for marine, energy, and industrial applications, these copper-nickel powders withstand seawater corrosion, stress-corrosion cracking, and erosion caused by high-velocity particles. Their uniform mechanical properties across a wide temperature range make them suitable for multiple additive manufacturing methods, including laser and electron beam powder bed fusion, binder jetting, hot isostatic pressing, direct energy deposition, and thermal spray processes. OptiPowder C71500. Image via Continuum Powders. Precision and Sustainability in Manufacturing The powders are produced with M2P atomization, converting reclaimed aerospace-grade metals into high-purity, spherical particles with consistent flow behavior….    read more 

UK-based research organization Materials Processing Institute (MPI) has introduced a high-temperature X-ray Diffraction (XRD) system that allows researchers and industrial partners to study materials at temperatures up to 1600°C. This system enables real-time observation of phase transformations in ceramics, slags, minerals, and metal alloys under conditions relevant to industrial processes such as casting, kilns, and foundry operations. The capability has been implemented as part of the PRISM research programme, funded by Innovate UK, which supports innovation, productivity, and sustainability in the UK metals and steel sector as it transitions toward net-zero and circular-economy practices. High-Temperature Research Applications Demand for in-situ XRD analysis at temperatures up to 1600°C has been increasing, as both industry and academia seek to understand material behavior during heating and cooling cycles. MPI’s existing platinum hot stage XRD operates up to around 1400°C, but researchers in the Advanced Materials Characterisation Centre have designed a tantalum-based hot stage…    read more 

IperionX Limited, a U.S.-based materials company, has secured a US$47.1 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). This funding is aimed at fortifying the U.S. Defense industrial base by advancing the development of a reliable, cost-effective, and fully integrated titanium supply chain—from mineral extraction to metal production—thereby enhancing national security and economic resilience. The agreement represents a combined investment of US$70.7 million, which will fund a two-phase development program over the next two years. In the first phase, the DoD has allocated US$5 million through the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program, with IperionX contributing an additional US$1 million. These funds will expedite the Titan Critical Minerals Project in Tennessee, advancing it to project-ready status—an essential step in establishing a new domestic source of titanium, rare earths, and zircon critical minerals. The remaining US$42.1 million will be allocated to IperionX’s Titanium Manufacturing Campus in Virginia, ensuring vertical…    read more 

Snapmaker, a manufacturer of multifunctional 3D printers, and Polymaker, a developer of advanced 3D printing materials, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at improving filament storage and usability within the 3D printing industry. This collaboration has led to the co-development of the SnapDryer, a modular device designed to efficiently dry and store various 3D printing filaments, addressing common issues related to moisture absorption that can compromise print quality. The SnapDryer stands as the first product emerging from this partnership, showcasing significant advancements in filament management. Engineered to handle multiple storage boxes through its dryer dock, the device ensures a reliable, moisture-proof seal for filaments. Supporting a wide range of materials—including PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, PA, PC, PVA, and breakaway support for PLA—the device accommodates filament diameters of 1.75 mm and 2.85 mm. It can manage spool sizes up to 205 mm in diameter and 78 mm in thickness, operating…    read more 

Filament2, a company specializing in innovative 3D printing materials, announced the launch of the world’s first silicone filament compatible with standard FDM 3D printers at Formnext 2024. This development promises to expand the capabilities of additive manufacturing across various industries by removing the necessity for specialized equipment. Silicone is highly regarded for its flexibility, heat resistance, and durability, making it a preferred material in industries such as medical devices, automotive engineering, and consumer electronics. However, integrating silicone into 3D printing processes has traditionally been difficult due to the complexity and high costs associated with specialized machinery. Filament2’s new filament addresses these challenges by enabling the extrusion of pure silicone using any standard FDM printer. This innovation not only simplifies the manufacturing process but also makes silicone accessible to a wider range of users and applications. Demonstration of a flexible silicone component printed using the newly launched silicone filament. Photo via…    read more