Volkmann Introduces Self-Contained Metal Powder System

3D-printing equipment manufacturer Volkmann USA has added its PowTrex system for the safe transfer, recovery and reuse of metal powders to its on-site test laboratory. The PowTrex metal powder transfer system was installed to permit material formulation testing and verify system performance in operating conditions that closely simulate an actual additive manufacturing environment. According to Volkmann, approximately five cubic feet of each non-hazardous metal powder can be provided when scheduling a test to ensure the testing is accurate and the results are actionable.

Suitable for testing a wide range of metal powders and other materials with bulk densities up to 400 lbs/ft.³, the PowTrex system safely and automatically transfers 3D-printing powders in large volumes from a container or supply hopper to one or more machines without risk of spillage, contamination, explosion or contact with workers. The self-contained metal powder handling system loads the material in the printer, unloads and screens unused material and returns the unused material back into the process for substantial savings in material costs. Testing may be viewed live at the test laboratory or streamed live online on Volkmann’s website.